Ex-convict caught with PHP 1 million worth of ‘shabu’

By Jennifer P. Rendon

A former convict was arrested in a police anti-drug operation shortly before midnight on October 21 in the City Proper district of Iloilo City.

Police identified the suspect only as “Janjan,” 25, a market porter or kargador from Barangay Concepcion, City Proper.

The Iloilo City Police Office–City Drug Enforcement Unit, in coordination with Police Station 1, the ICPO Special Weapons and Tactics team, the PNP Drug Enforcement Group–Special Operations Unit 6, and the Regional Intelligence Unit 6, conducted the buy-bust operation at Barangay Kauswagan, City Proper.

Janjan was apprehended after selling a sachet of suspected shabu for PHP 12,000.

Authorities recovered 10 additional sachets and two knot-tied plastic packs containing more suspected shabu.

Capt. Roque Gimeno, ICPO-CDEU chief, said the seized drugs weighed around 150 grams, with an estimated street value of PHP 1,020,000.

Gimeno said the suspect was previously arrested for a drug-related offense in 2023.

He was released from incarceration in January 2025 through a plea bargaining agreement.

Janjan, considered a high-value individual, is included in the regional drug watchlist.

Gimeno said the suspect worked as a runner for major drug personalities following his release.

Police said he allegedly sourced his supply through a contact at the New Bilibid Prison.

Janjan reportedly remitted around PHP 10,000 in daily earnings to his “boss,” according to police.

He is now back in detention and will face charges for violating Republic Act No. 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.