Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. has issued a stern directive to the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) to intensify its double-barreled campaign against illegal drugs and the rising incidence of vehicular accidents in the province of Iloilo.
The governor made this order during the New Year’s Call of the IPPO led by Provincial Director Bayani Razalan at the Casa Real de Iloilo, marking a strengthened campaign in ensuring the safety and security of the Ilonggos.
Defensor emphasized the need for an enhanced road safety enforcement considering the rampant cases of road mishaps. A total of 5,341 vehicular accidents were recorded in the province of Iloilo in 2025, based on the report of the IPPO. This is 6.28 percent higher than the 5,025 in 2024.
Defensor said that traffic injuries take a toll on the province’s healthcare system. “Naga gastos kita sa hospital nga dapat wala naman. Vehicular accidents put a burden on our healthcare system,” he said.
The governor noted that road mishaps are preventable as they are often caused by two things – driving under the influence (DUI) or technical road problems.
To address the issue, Defensor said the provincial government is willing to provide funds to the IPPO for the procurement of breath analyzers to measure alcohol consumption. Defensor also ordered for an inventory of road sections that need immediate lighting and signage.
Moreover, the IPPO was also directed to intensify its anti-illegal drugs campaign, particularly on strengthening their surveillance on major ports of entry.
The governor also lauded the IPPO for their significant strides in the anti-illegal drugs operations, achieving a 99 percent drug-cleared status in all barangays in the province.
“We look forward to working with you in 2026. Together, we want to have concrete results,” the governor said.
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