PRO-NIR seizes PHP 307 million in drugs

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region marked its first anniversary by reporting intensified law enforcement operations that targeted illegal drugs, wanted persons, illegal gambling, loose firearms, illegal fishing, and smuggling across the region.

From March 27, 2025, to March 20, 2026, PRO-NIR seized illegal drugs worth PHP 307,542,637.20, including 44,997.57 grams of shabu valued at PHP 305,983,476 and 12,993.01 grams of marijuana valued at PHP 1,559,161.20.

The anti-illegal drug campaign included 2,281 operations that resulted in 2,708 arrests, dealing what police described as a major blow to the regional drug trade.

In its campaign against wanted persons, PRO-NIR apprehended 3,841 fugitives, including 693 most wanted persons and 3,148 other wanted persons.

In its anti-illegal gambling campaign, PRO-NIR conducted 831 operations, arrested 1,912 individuals, and confiscated PHP 324,012.55 in bet money.

In its campaign against loose firearms, PRO-NIR conducted 56,914 operations that resulted in 374 arrests, the recovery, surrender, or confiscation of 1,601 loose firearms, and the safekeeping of 177 firearms.

In its campaign against illegal fishing, the regional office carried out 232 operations, arrested 657 individuals, and confiscated about PHP 321,775 worth of fish and PHP 13,081,550 worth of fishing paraphernalia.

In its campaign against cigarette smuggling, PRO-NIR recorded 171 operations, arrested 85 individuals, and confiscated about PHP 22,365,648 worth of smuggled goods.

Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director, thanked personnel for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to law enforcement.

“Over the past year, the personnel have demonstrated extraordinary courage, discipline, and resolve in safeguarding our communities, apprehending wanted persons, dismantling criminal syndicates, and enforcing the law with unwavering integrity,” he said.

Ibay added that the accomplishments reflected the collective vigilance and steadfast commitment of the region’s police force.

The regional office remains resolute in its mission to protect the public, strengthen safety, and sustain peace and order across the Negros Island Region.

The anniversary report comes as the Negros Island Region continues to consolidate government services under Republic Act No. 12000, which was signed in June 2024 and created a single administrative region composed of Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.