Authorities in Iloilo Province scored a major victory in the war against illegal drugs after a buy-bust operation led to the arrest of a suspected high-value drug personality and the confiscation of methamphetamine hydrochloride, or shabu, with an estimated street value of P3.4 million.
Operation Details and Arrest
The successful sting was conducted by the Provincial Drug Enforcement Team (PDEU) of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) in Barangay PD Monforth North, Dumangas, Iloilo, at approximately 4:30 p.m. on December 6, 2025. The operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 505 grams of shabu.
The apprehended suspect was identified as a 39-year-old married woman who goes by the alias 'Jenjen'. A resident of Barangay Lagubang in Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo, the suspect was reportedly unemployed. Police Major Dadje Delima, the PDEU team leader, revealed that the operation was initiated based on a tip from a concerned citizen in Dumangas.
Month-Long Surveillance and Drug Network
Following the initial report, law enforcement agents placed the suspect under close surveillance for nearly a month to validate the information. Their investigation confirmed allegations that the suspect was allegedly sourcing her supply of illegal drugs from Metro Manila and distributing them within Dumangas and neighboring areas.
After her arrest, the suspect was immediately turned over to the custody of the Dumangas Municipal Police Station. She is now facing formal charges for violating Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Police Commendation and Community Support
Police Colonel Bayani Razalan, the provincial director of IPPO, lauded the PDEU Team 2 for their diligent work. In a statement, he commended the successful operation and the arrest, calling it proof of the effective cooperation between the Ilonggo police force and the community.
Razalan also expressed profound gratitude for the continued trust and support of the local community, emphasizing that such collaboration is vital in the fight against criminality. He reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office to sustain its anti-illegal drug campaigns to ensure the safety and security of all communities across the province.
