Iloilo has new police provincial director
ILOILO CITY — Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr has appointed Col. Bayani Razalan as full-pledged director of the Iloilo Provincial Police Office (IPPO), three months after the latter had served as officer in charge of the police organization.
Defensor cited Razalan’s accomplishments in fighting illegal drug activities and gambling, among other achievements.
Until his appointment, Razalan had served as the officer in charge of the IPPO since April 19. He had also served as chief of the Regional Intelligence Division of the Police Regional Office 6.
He succeeded former IPPO director Col. Ronaldo Palomo who was relieved from his post allegedly due to a low volume of apprehensions in anti-illegal gambling operations.
For over three months, the IPPO under the leadership of Razalan has conducted 117 anti-drug operations from April 19 to July 28 this year, leading to the arrest of 147 drug traffickers, including 28 high-value targets.
Police authorities also confiscated 3,937.77 grams of shabu, with an estimated street value of over P27 million.
In addition, the tracker teams also carried out 343 manhunt operations which resulted in the apprehension of 345 fugitives, including 67 most wanted individuals.
In the fight against illegal fishing, 102 operations were conducted behind the joint efforts with the Provincial and Municipal Bantay Dagat Task Forces. The operations led to the arrest of 261 offenders and the seizure of 132 fishing boats and P418,338 worth of fish.
The police conducted 108 operations against illegal quarrying, resulting in the apprehension of 116 violators and delivery trucks impounded.
Additionally, 34 successful raids on illegal gambling operations led to the arrest of 70 individuals and the confiscation of P41,014 in bet money.
Efforts to control loose firearms resulted in the recovery of 201 firearms, with 150 surrendered by owners, 17 deposited at police stations, and 34 confiscated during operations. A total of 35 individuals were arrested.
The IPPO also recorded a 3.09 percent decrease in total crime incidents, with a notable 21.70 percent reduction in index crimes, including major offenses like murder, robbery, and theft.
However, there was a slight 0.60 percent increase in the public safety indicator, mainly due to a rise in vehicular accidents.
Razalan credited the success to improved law enforcement strategies, enhanced community policing, and increased public involvement in crime prevention.
“The IPPO remains committed to improving public safety and maintaining peace and order in Iloilo. I thank the Ilonggos for their support in making our province safer, more secure, and drug-free,” he added.