Three Nabbed in P646K Estancia Drug Bust

By Jennifer P. Rendon

Three individuals were arrested during an anti-illegal drug operation on the afternoon of December 5 in Estancia, Iloilo.

The suspects were identified as Lawrence Valentin, 55, of Barangay Botongon; Edwin Albajeso, 45, of Barangay Calapdan; and Gether Opinion, 42, of Barangay Poblacion Zone 2, all in Estancia.

The operation was conducted by members of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office-Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (IPPO-PDEU) Team 3, in coordination with personnel from the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU) 6, IPPO Provincial Intelligence Unit, 2nd Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Company, and Estancia Municipal Police Station.

Valentin, the primary target, was arrested after selling three sachets of suspected shabu for PHP 45,000.

Police also seized 14 additional sachets, two knot-tied plastic packs of suspected shabu, a .38 caliber revolver, and several other items.

According to Major Dadje Delima, IPPO-PDEU chief, the seized drugs weighed approximately 95 grams and had a standard drug price of PHP 646,000.

Delima said Valentin was the main target, while one of the other suspects acted as his runner. The third suspect was present at the scene and was also found in possession of illegal drugs.

Valentin claimed the firearm confiscated from him belonged to a customer who failed to pay for three sachets of suspected shabu. He said he carried the gun to intimidate clients who did not pay for their purchases.

Records revealed that Valentin was previously arrested for a drug-related offense in 2016. However, the case was dismissed after the arresting officer died, leading to his release from jail in August 2024.

The three suspects are currently detained and will face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Valentin will also be charged with violating Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.