By Jennifer P. Rendon

A suspected drug peddler and a bar bouncer were arrested in an anti-narcotics operation at a bar in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, early December 14.

The suspects, identified as alias Mark, 38, of Barangay Jereos, La Paz, and alias George, 46, of Barangay Ma. Cristina, Jaro, were caught after allegedly selling a sachet of suspected shabu worth ₱12,000 to a police poseur buyer.

The operation was conducted by the Iloilo City Police Office – City Drug Enforcement Unit (ICPO-CDEU), in coordination with Iloilo City Police Station 10, the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit (RPDEU) 6, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 6. It took place outside a bar in Barangay San Rafael, Mandurriao.

Police recovered 11 more sachets and five knot-tied plastic bags of suspected shabu, weighing about 300 grams and valued at ₱2,040,000. Authorities also seized a 9mm pistol and other non-drug items.

Captain Ryan Christ Inot, team leader of the CDEU, said Mark was known in the area as a key figure in the illegal drug trade.

Workers, including bouncers and waiters, allegedly tolerated his activities due to his generosity in giving tips and commissions.

“Mark’s activity has been going on for a while. Pero kaibigan n’ya ang may-ari ng bar kaya pinapabayaan na lang. Malakas din siyang magbigay sa mga bouncers at waiters,” Inot said.

George reportedly accompanied Mark during the operation, expecting to receive a sachet of shabu to sell to bar patrons.

Initial reports revealed that Mark had a previous drug-related arrest, though police are verifying the status of his case. George, on the other hand, had no prior involvement in illegal drug activities.

Both suspects are now detained and face charges for violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Mark will also be charged under Republic Act 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.