Amid the persistent challenge posed by illegal drugs, the Philippine National Police (PNP), under the leadership of Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., Acting PNP Chief, remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard every Filipino and ensure a brighter future for generations to come.
On September 6, 2025, a breakthrough set forth in Western Visayas, when a well-known primary supplier of illegal drugs in the entire province of Iloilo was arrested in a buy-bust operation conducted in Barangay Padios, Sara, Iloilo.
The operation was carried out by the Provincial Police Drug Enforcement Unit 6 (PPDEU 6) led by Police Lieutenant Gabriel Gilmer Manguera, Deputy Chief, and under the supervision of Police Major Dadje De Lima, Chief of Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit 6 (RPDEU 6), which resulted in the arrest of alias “Brok-brok”, a former seaman and resident of Barangay Bancal, Carles, Iloilo, who had been tagged as the “King of the North.” Also arrested were four of his companions, identified as alias “Anthony,” “Dex,” “Bianca,” and “Connie.”
Confiscated from the suspects were approximately 650 grams of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of Php4,420,000.00. In addition, a homemade 9mm caliber revolver and other non-drug items were seized.
The arrested suspects were placed under the custody of Sara Municipal Police Station, while charges for violations of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) and Republic Act 10591 (Illegal Possession of Firearms, Ammunition and Explosives) are being prepared as of this writing.
The successful operation is a proof of the relentless efforts of the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO 6), led by Police Brigadier General Josefino D. Ligan, Regional Director, in its strong campaign against illegal drugs which aims to cut off major drug supplies in the region. PBGen Ligan lauded the operating units for their successful operation, saying: “This accomplishment sends a strong message that PRO6 remains steadfast in its campaign against illegal drugs and firearms. We will not allow these substances and weapons to destroy the peace and future of our communities. I call on the public to continue supporting our efforts by providing timely and accurate information to the police.”
In sync with the directives of the PLtGen Nartatez to eradicate illegal drug chain networks, PRO 6 is also intensifying its community-based programs, including drug information campaigns and fostering strong partnerships with local government units and other partner agencies.
Overall, the intensified campaign of PRO 6, strengthened by the unwavering commitment of its members, is definitely heading toward a more peaceful and drug-free Western Visayas.
