PHP 178.8 million shabu seized in 11-month Iloilo stings

By Jennifer P. Rendon

Police seized around PHP 178.8 million worth of illegal drugs in Iloilo City during 11 months of intensified anti-narcotics operations.

Records from the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) showed that 26.299 kilograms of suspected shabu and 1.679 kilograms of marijuana were confiscated in 662 operations conducted from Jan. 1 to Nov. 30, 2025.

The seized drugs were valued at around PHP 178.8 million.

Beyond clearing the streets of illegal drugs, the operations also resulted in the arrest of 873 drug personalities.

Records showed that those arrested included 261 high-value individuals, 573 street-level individuals, 20 with warrants of arrest, 14 minors and five unlisted individuals.

ICPO spokesperson Maj. Shella Mae Sangrines said the accomplishment covered operations conducted by ICPO units and other agencies, including the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the PNP Drug Enforcement Group–Special Operations Unit 6.

The ICPO City Drug Enforcement Unit logged the highest number of arrests with 120, followed by Iloilo City Police Station 4 with 118, Police Station 2 with 83, Police Station 9 with 73 and Police Station 10 with 66.

Sangrines said other operating units also contributed significantly to the total arrests.

In terms of drug volume, the City Drug Enforcement Unit also topped the list with 8.736 kilograms of shabu valued at PHP 59.407 million.

Members of the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit 6, working with ICPO units, seized around 6.314 kilograms worth PHP 42.937 million.

Rounding out the top five biggest hauls were Police Station 10 with 2.193 kilograms worth PHP 14.913 million; Police Station 2 with 1.530 kilograms worth PHP 11.404 million; and Police Station 9 with 1.474 kilograms valued at PHP 10.023 million.

Iloilo City Police Chief Col. Kim Legada said the records reflect the unwavering dedication and consistent efforts of the city’s anti-drug operatives.

He also acknowledged the community’s support in curbing the illegal drug problem in the city.

“These accomplishments reflect not only the dedication of our police force but also the strong support of our community,” Legada said. “Your cooperation strengthens our efforts and helps us protect our youth and safeguard our city. Padayon kita.”

Legada said their collective vow remains to stay united in ridding society of illegal drugs.