ILOILO City – As the 2025 Dinagyang Festival draws near, local authorities are ramping up efforts to shield the city from the threat of illegal drugs during the highly anticipated celebration.
With thousands of revelers expected to flood the city from January 24 to 26, the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) is confronting a potential uptick in drug activity head-on.
Police Colonel Kim Legada, ICPO director, revealed that intensified anti-drug operations are in full swing, with almost half a kilogram of suspected shabu seized in just 13 operations over the past three days.
A significant haul of 200 grams of suspected shabu, valued at P1.36 million, was confiscated during a recent bust in Barangay Bakhaw, Mandurriao district – a known hotspot for drug activity. Two high-value suspects were apprehended in the operation.
“The resurgence of illegal drugs, especially during major events like Dinagyang, is something we cannot allow. We are doubling our efforts this January to prevent these substances from infiltrating our festivities,” Legada said, emphasizing that the fight against drugs in areas like Bakhaw remains a priority.
Interestingly, Legada noted the emergence of new players in the drug trade, alongside former offenders returning to illegal activities after availing of plea bargaining agreements. These dynamics, he stressed, call for unwavering vigilance and strategic action.
Mayor Jerry Treñas lauded the ICPO’s efforts, recognizing their success as a critical step in maintaining Iloilo City’s safety and reputation.
“Our collective vigilance is crucial. As we prepare for Dinagyang, I urge our police force to intensify their campaign to keep illegal drugs out of our city,” Treñas said, underscoring the importance of a drug-free celebration./PN
