Major Drug Bust in Iloilo Nets High-Value Suspect and P544,000 Worth of Shabu
In a significant blow to illegal drug operations in Western Visayas, operatives from the Iloilo Police Provincial Office-Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit conducted a successful buy-bust operation that resulted in the arrest of a high-value individual and the confiscation of approximately 80 grams of shabu valued at P544,000. The operation took place in Santa Barbara, Iloilo, on the evening of February 17, 2026, at precisely 7:13 p.m.
Suspect Identified as Alias Marc from Pavia
Police have identified the apprehended suspect as alias Marc, a 39-year-old resident of Barangay Pandac in Pavia, Iloilo. Following the operation, the suspect was placed under the custody of the Santa Barbara Municipal Police Station for proper legal processing. Authorities are currently preparing charges against him for violations of Sections 5 and 11, Article II of Republic Act 9165, commonly known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Recovered Evidence and Legal Penalties
During the operation, law enforcement officers recovered four sachets containing the seized shabu, which weighed approximately 80 grams with an estimated street value of P544,000. In addition to the illegal drugs, police confiscated the buy-bust money used in the operation along with other non-drug related items. The charges being filed carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment and fines ranging from P500,000 to P10,000,000, underscoring the gravity of the offenses.
Police Leadership Commends Operation
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, the regional director of the Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6), praised the operating units for their successful arrest and seizure. In a statement, Ligan emphasized the ongoing commitment to combating drug-related crimes, stating, "We will continue to intensify our operations against high-value drug personalities who endanger our communities. This accomplishment shows our strong commitment to protecting the people of Western Visayas from the harmful effects of illegal drugs." He further urged public cooperation, adding, "We ask the public to remain vigilant and to keep working with the police by reporting any suspicious activities in their neighborhoods."
Part of Broader Anti-Drug Campaign
This operation is a key component of the continuous anti-illegal drug campaign spearheaded by PRO 6 and its provincial units, which specifically targets high-value drug personalities across Iloilo province. The successful bust highlights the effectiveness of coordinated police efforts in disrupting drug networks and safeguarding community safety. As authorities continue their crackdown, such operations serve as a deterrent to other potential offenders while reinforcing law enforcement's dedication to eradicating the drug trade in the region.
