ICPO to meet with 24 cops residing in Bakhaw over PNP’s anti-drug drive

By Jennifer P. Rendon

A group of 24 police officers will be summoned soon by their superiors as part of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO)’s heightened campaign against illegal drugs.

This group of cops share one thing – they’re all residents of Barangay Bakhaw in Mandurriao district which has been in the spotlight lately because of a perceived resurgence in the illegal drug trade.

Brigadier General Leo Francisco, Western Visayas police chief, raised his plan of meeting police officers residing in Bakhaw following the arrest of 32 persons in a buy-bust operation in the area last Jan 25, 2023.

Seven of the officers are assigned to ICPO while 17 are with other units.

The list included former ICPO director Colonel Leo Batiles.

Colonel Joeresty Coronica, Iloilo City police chief, said he already instructed Lieutenant Colonel Albert Sy, Iloilo City Police Station 5 chief, to schedule a meeting with the 24 policemen as soon as possible.

“We will ask for their cooperation in our fight against illegal drugs. As policemen, it is their duty to be vigilant on what’s going on in their community,” he said.

Coronica said they will also be asked to give vital information on the crime situation in the area.

“They couldn’t say that it will put their lives at risk because such activity is inherent in our work as policemen. They should do it regardless of their assignments or units,” he said.

Coronica said they also welcome retired police officers who will help in their campaign to rid Bakhaw of illegal drugs.