In a significant anti-drug operation, authorities in Iloilo have apprehended a 49-year-old Barangay Tanod, who was recently classified as a high-value individual (HVI), following the seizure of approximately 120 grams of shabu valued at P816,000. The arrest occurred in Barangay Siwaragan, San Joaquin, Iloilo, on the evening of February 21, 2026, marking a major breakthrough in local law enforcement efforts.
Details of the Drug Bust Operation
The operation was executed by the Station Drug Enforcement Team (SDET) of the San Joaquin Municipal Police Station, under the leadership of Police Captain Isagani Tabares, who serves as the officer-in-charge. Acting on credible information provided by concerned citizens regarding the suspect's alleged involvement in illegal drug activities, police initiated nearly three weeks of intensive surveillance to confirm the reports.
Suspect Profile and Alleged Activities
The suspect, identified only by his alias "Dodoy," is a married resident of Barangay Siwaragan. Investigators established that he was reportedly sourcing illegal drugs from Iloilo City and distributing them within the San Joaquin area. This led to his classification as a newly identified HVI, highlighting the severity of his alleged operations in the community.
Seized Evidence and Legal Proceedings
During the arrest, law enforcement officers confiscated approximately 120 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of P816,000 based on standard drug pricing. The suspect is currently detained at the San Joaquin Municipal Police Station and is set to face charges under Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, which imposes strict penalties for drug-related offenses.
Police Response and Community Cooperation
Police Colonel Bayani Razalan, the provincial director of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO), commended the San Joaquin Municipal Police Station for their successful operation. In a statement, Razalan emphasized the importance of community support, saying, "Congratulations San Joaquin MPS on your successful arrest of an HVI Barangay Tanod. We continue to be grateful for the strong support and trust of our people. Our strong campaign against illegal drugs continues throughout the province of Iloilo."
Ongoing Anti-Drug Campaign
The IPPO has reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying the campaign against illegal drugs across the province. This arrest underscores the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and hold individuals accountable, particularly those in positions of public trust, such as Barangay Tanods, who are expected to uphold law and order in their communities.
