ILOILO City – A deadly stabbing tied to a suspected drug deal has ignited a sharp divide between police assessment and public perception, with a top city official warning of an “alarming” drug situation even as authorities insist Iloilo City remains under control.
The March 21 incident in Barangay San Isidro, La Paz district — which left four people dead and was reportedly linked to a failed drug transaction — has become a flashpoint, raising conflicting narratives between the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) and Iloilo City Lone District’s Cong. Julienne Baronda.
ICPO officer-in-charge Wilbert Parilla downplayed concerns, saying police data and ongoing monitoring do not support claims of a worsening drug problem.
“Based on the situation and evaluation of our personnel, it’s not that alarming,” Parilla said.
He stressed that the city remains generally safe, even at night, and maintained that drug-related incidents are still limited.
Parilla said the police continue to intensify intelligence gathering, visibility operations, and coordination with barangay officials, citing recent engagements in Lapuz and City Proper.
“We continue to monitor closely, and we are conducting educational campaigns in barangays to inform the public and encourage them to report illegal activities,” he said.
He emphasized that strengthening grassroots participation is key to sustaining anti-drug efforts and addressing community concerns.
Baronda, however, offered a starkly different view, warning that the situation in several communities is becoming increasingly dangerous.
“I consider this alarming,” she said, referring to the drug situation in parts of Iloilo City.
She pointed to the March 21 killings as a clear sign of escalating risks linked to illegal drugs.
“Sa akon pakighinun-anon sa pumuluyo, nagahambal sila nga makalarma gid ang illegal drugs sa syudad kag indi na safe ang ila palibot,” Baronda said.
The lawmaker also raised alarm over what she described as the growing boldness of individuals involved in illegal drugs.
“Daw wala na kahadlok ang iban nga nagagamit sang illegal drugs, bisan may nagakatabo nga pagbinun-anay kag pagpatay,” she added.
Baronda said she intends to seek clarification from Parilla and may elevate the issue to Congress through a privilege speech if concerns remain unresolved.
Despite their differing assessments, both sides agree on one point — the need to sustain and intensify anti-drug efforts./PN
