The Police Regional Office in Western Visayas (PRO 6) reported a 34.52 percent decrease in focus crimes following intensified law enforcement and public safety operations in April 2026. The month-long campaign led to the arrest of hundreds of violators and the confiscation of illegal drugs, firearms, smuggled goods, and other contraband.
Key Accomplishments
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, PRO 6 director, attributed the achievements to enhanced operations, intelligence gathering, increased visibility, and collaboration with local government units and community stakeholders. These efforts align with the Philippine National Police (PNP) focus agenda led by PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.
“PRO 6 remains steadfast in its commitment to intensify law enforcement operations and strengthen community-based policing strategies to ensure a safer, more secure, and peaceful Western Visayas,” Ligan said.
PRO 6 recorded 58 fewer focus crime incidents in April 2026 compared to the same period last year. Officials credited sustained operations, strategic personnel deployment, and strengthened community partnership programs for the decline.
Anti-Illegal Drugs Campaign
In the campaign against illegal drugs, PRO 6 conducted 137 operations, resulting in the arrest of 177 suspects and the confiscation of 6.455 kilograms of illegal drugs. These activities were carried out in coordination with various police units and anti-drug operatives.
Firearms and Explosives
The regional office intensified its campaign against loose firearms through Oplan Bakal Sita, visibility operations, and search warrants. Authorities confiscated 46 illegally possessed firearms, while 378 were voluntarily surrendered and another 50 were deposited for safekeeping pending license renewals. Additionally, 77 explosives were turned over to authorities as part of ongoing security initiatives.
Wanted Persons
Units across Western Visayas arrested 47 most wanted persons and 175 others facing various criminal charges. Authorities stated this demonstrates PRO 6’s commitment to ensuring individuals facing charges are brought before the courts.
Anti-Gambling and Anti-Smuggling
Anti-gambling operations led to the arrest of 187 violators and the confiscation of gambling paraphernalia and P67,447 in bet money. Meanwhile, anti-smuggling efforts resulted in the arrest of five individuals and the seizure of smuggled cigarettes valued at P6,125,538.09.
Environmental Law Enforcement
Environmental law enforcement was sustained through anti-illegal fishing and logging campaigns. Seaborne patrols and monitoring led to the apprehension of 387 illegal fishing violators and 153 illegal logging suspects.
Safer Cities Initiative
Under the Safer Cities Initiative, PRO 6 increased visibility in commercial hubs, transport terminals, and tourism destinations. The enforcement of local ordinances resulted in the apprehension of 9,227 individuals; of these, 3,431 were fined, five were charged in court, and 7,497 were warned and released.
PRO 6 stated that all regional units will continue to sustain aggressive but lawful operations, strengthen crime prevention, and uphold professionalism and accountability.
