ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry P. Treñas lauded the leadership of Police Colonel Kim P. Legada, director of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), for what he described as “strong and effective leadership” in the city’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs.
In a span of just 10 months, or from July 23, 2024 to May 23, 2025, the ICPO has confiscated over P157 million worth of illegal drugs and arrested 735 suspects from a total of 529 anti-drug operations. Among those arrested were 189 high-value targets (HVTs) and 532 street-level individuals (SLIs).
“This is not just about numbers. These accomplishments reflect the bravery and discipline of our police force, and the seriousness of our collective resolve that we will not allow drugs to destroy our communities and young lives,” Mayor Treñas said. “To Police Colonel Legada and all the men and women behind these operations, thank you. You have the city’s full support.”
Data from the ICPO showed that approximately 23,089 grams of shabu and 123 grams of marijuana were seized during the said period. The City Drug Enforcement Unit (CDEU) alone was responsible for confiscating more than P61 million worth of shabu, the largest share of the total seizure.
For his part, Legada, who assumed his post on July 23, 2024 following the reassignment of former city police director Colonel Joeresty Coronica to Bacolod City, said the figures should not cause public alarm but instead reflect the proactive and determined anti-drug efforts of the ICPO.
“The bulk of drugs we have recovered is an indication of our police force’s continued hard work to maintain the safety of the community. This should not cause alarm, but rather serve as inspiration for the public to join us in the campaign against illegal drugs,” Legada said.
Despite the success, the ICPO chief underscored the continuing need for community support.
“The presence of drugs in our city remains a challenge. Kinahanglan guid ang kooperasyon sang publiko agud mapabakod ang kampanya,” he added.
The ICPO further vowed to continue its anti-drug drive with vigilance and determination, while strengthening partnerships with barangay officials, civic groups, and other stakeholders./PN
