By Jennifer P. Rendon
The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) marked 2024 with significant accomplishments in law enforcement, emphasizing its commitment to public safety and community partnerships.
Through a series of strategic initiatives, the IPPO strengthened its anti-narcotics operations, bolstered community ties, and contributed to a safer Iloilo.
From January 1 to December 31, 2024, the IPPO conducted 369 operations targeting illegal drugs, resulting in the arrest of 477 individuals.
Among those apprehended, 363 were identified as street-level individuals (SLIs), while 109 were classified as high-value individuals (HVIs).
Nearly 14 kilograms of illegal drugs, valued at over PHP 95.079 million, were confiscated, and 1,011 drug-related cases were filed in court.
In comparison, the IPPO conducted fewer operations in 2023, with 302 activities, though drug seizures that year amounted to PHP 107 million.
IPPO chief Colonel Bayani Razalan highlighted the office’s achievements beyond anti-narcotics efforts.
In 2024, the IPPO launched 1,123 operations against wanted persons, leading to the arrest of 1,131 fugitives.
Among them, 238 were listed as most wanted persons (MWPs), and 890 were classified as other wanted persons.
The IPPO also intensified its campaign against illegal gambling, conducting 146 operations.
These efforts resulted in 374 arrests and the confiscation of PHP 143,858 in bet money.
Additionally, the office carried out 175 operations against loose firearms, leading to the arrest of 154 individuals and the seizure of 178 firearms.
Another 472 firearms were voluntarily surrendered, and 93 were deposited for safekeeping.
In marine conservation efforts, the IPPO conducted 259 operations against illegal fishing, apprehending 726 individuals and seizing 382 fishing boats.
Confiscated fish from these operations were valued at approximately PHP 1,067,988.
The IPPO also launched 355 operations against illegal quarrying, which led to the arrest of 376 individuals and the impounding of 374 vehicles.
Razalan commended the trust and support of the Ilonggo community as a driving force behind these successes.
“The success of our operations is not solely attributed to our hard work but also to the strong partnerships we have fostered with the public,” he said.
He added that the IPPO’s 2024 achievements underscore its dedication to creating a secure environment for all Iloilo residents.
“Through these concerted efforts, the IPPO continues to strengthen its mission of ensuring safety and justice for all,” Razalan said.
