ILOILO City – With more than three-fourths of its 180 barangays already declared drug-cleared, the Iloilo City government has set a 2026 deadline to eradicate illegal drugs in all villages.
Mayor Raisa Treñas said 113 barangays had been declared drug-cleared by the end of 2025, leaving 67 barangays targeted for clearing within the year as part of what she described as sustained and focused anti-illegal drug operations.
“We want to clearly show that in Iloilo City, we do not allow illegal drugs to thrive or be ignored,” Treñas said.
She said the declaration of 17 drug-cleared barangays in 2025 alone reflected intensified police operations under the leadership of outgoing Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) director Police Colonel Kim Legada, underscoring the city’s aggressive stance against illegal drugs.
The mayor stressed that the campaign is aimed at protecting communities, particularly the youth, whom she described as the most vulnerable to the harmful effects of illegal substances.
“Drugs destroy families and communities. That is why we are firm in our resolve to keep our barangays safe and drug-free, particularly for our children,” Treñas added.
Treñas cited the role of the Iloilo City Police Office, the City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU), and other law enforcement agencies in advancing the city’s anti-drug drive.
In the fourth quarter of 2025 alone, the CDEU conducted 27 anti-drug operations that resulted in the arrest of 43 drug personalities.
“The fight against illegal drugs has been strongly supported by the ICPO, and this is one of the main reasons why more barangays have been declared drug-cleared,” Treñas said, thanking police personnel for their continued dedication.
She also acknowledged the contributions of former ICPO director Colonel Kim Legada in strengthening anti-illegal drug operations, noting that his efforts helped accelerate progress toward the city’s goal.
Legada was relieved from his post the other day./PN
