By Jennifer P. Rendon
The Pavia Municipal Police Station in Iloilo has made significant strides in its anti-drug campaign, arresting several high-value individuals (HVIs) and seizing approximately Php12 million worth of illegal drugs since January 2024.
With 35 anti-illegal drug operations conducted, the Pavia police have arrested 164 drug personalities, positioning the station at the top of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office’s (IPPO) list for the largest drug haul and the highest number of operations and arrests.
According to Pavia Police Chief Major Dadje Delima, the increase in arrests should not cause alarm but be seen as the result of intensified efforts to gather information and combat all forms of criminality, particularly illegal drugs.
“Our policemen, in coordination with other units, have been working diligently to intercept these drug personalities,” Delima said.
Delima emphasized the importance of being personally involved in every aspect of the campaign to fully understand the scope of the drug situation.
The Pavia police also hold regular meetings with the Barangay Anti-Drug Abuse Councils (BADACs) to monitor local drug activity.
He noted that a significant number of individuals who surrendered during the height of Oplan Tokhang—about 280 in Pavia—have returned to drug use or trade.
“Some drug personalities are back in the business, especially after the Duterte administration, because they no longer fear death,” Delima said.
The police chief expressed frustration that many arrested drug offenders, upon release from prison, continue their involvement in the illegal drug trade.
“Instead of reforming, their drug networks have expanded,” he said.
Pavia’s growing population, driven by new subdivisions and non-residents, also presents challenges for local law enforcement.
However, Delima assured the public that the police would continue their aggressive anti-drug efforts.
