Iloilo province backs PDEA with new service vehicle

By Mariela Angella Oladive

The Iloilo provincial government has donated a service vehicle to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency to support the agency’s campaign against illegal drugs and strengthen its operations in the region.

Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. led the ceremonial turnover on June 24 at the Governor’s Boardroom at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol.

PDEA Director General Isagani Nerez formally received the vehicle on behalf of the agency.

Nerez said the donation would help strengthen PDEA’s operational capabilities and support the delivery of its services.

“This service vehicle is a tangible expression of partnership, shared commitment and of the trust that the people of Iloilo Province place in our campaign against illegal drugs,” he said.

Defensor expressed his commitment to sustaining collaboration with PDEA, including providing logistical support to help improve the agency’s operations.

The governor said the provincial government remains supportive of programs and initiatives aimed at maintaining peace and order and protecting communities from the threat of illegal drugs.

The donation comes as Iloilo continues to strengthen interagency efforts against illegal drugs, with provincial officials citing the need for enhanced mobility and logistical support for law enforcement operations.

PDEA serves as the lead agency in the government’s enforcement of the anti-illegal drugs campaign under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Also present during the ceremony were PDEA Regional Director Ralph Rommel Torres and other regional officials.

Defensor was joined by Provincial Administrator Raul Banias and Provincial Legal Officer Dennis Ventilacion.