Coronica’s ICPO tenure yields major drug busts

By Jennifer P. Rendon and Glazyl Y. Masculino

Relentless anti-criminality operations and a strong service reputation marked Colonel Joeresty Coronica’s tenure as Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) director.

In a press statement, the ICPO credited Coronica’s dedication to combating criminality for maintaining public safety and security, gaining the community’s trust and confidence, and upholding the rule of law in the city.

Focusing on the fight against illegal drugs, Coronica led the ICPO in conducting hundreds of anti-narcotics operations.

From Jan. 27, 2023, to July 20, 2024, ICPO units arrested 877 illegal drug personalities, seizing approximately 19.42 kilograms of suspected shabu with a standard drug price of P132,056,935.

In its efforts to prevent crimes involving unlicensed firearms, the ICPO arrested 63 individuals for illegal possession of loose firearms.

Additionally, 69 loose firearms and 39 explosives were surrendered or confiscated in 228 operations.

The ongoing campaign against wanted persons resulted in the arrest of 699 individuals, with 127 classified as most wanted and 572 as other wanted persons.

In the fight against illegal gambling, the ICPO conducted 148 operations, arresting 583 individuals and recovering P290,805 in bet money.

Beyond his leadership, Coronica commended all operating personnel, particularly those on the ground, for their hard work and perseverance.

“These results reflect your hard work and perseverance. They are testaments to your competence, dedication, and commitment as members of the ICPO,” he said.

Despite the new leadership, Coronica encouraged ICPO personnel to remain united in their quest to cleanse the community of bad elements and illegal activities while continuing to serve selflessly.

Coronica replaced Police Colonel Noel Aliño, who was relieved from the BCPO on July 19 and transferred to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) in the National Capital Region (NCR).

Last Monday, the Iloilo City government presented Executive Order No. 106, Series of 2024, to Coronica, officially declaring him an adopted son of Iloilo City for his significant contributions to securing the metropolis.

Lawyer Caesar Distrito, spokesperson for Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez, stated that the mayor will issue a statement soon.