TACLOBAN CITY — The Leyte Police Provincial Office (LPPO) reported notable gains in its law enforcement campaigns in 2025, citing hundreds of arrests and seizures resulting from intensified operations aimed at keeping peace and order across the province.
From January 1 to December 31, 2025, LPPO, under the leadership of Provincial Director Police Colonel Dionisio D.C. Apas Jr., conducted 45 anti-illegal drug operations that led to the arrest of 47 suspects and the seizure of 343.95 grams of illegal drugs worth about P2.34 million.
In support of the government’s anti-insurgency efforts, police also facilitated the surrender of 38 members of the New People’s Army and arrested two others during the same period.
The provincial police reported 320 operations against illegal gambling, resulting in the arrest of 855 individuals and the confiscation of P143,250.50 in betting money.
Operations against illegal fishing and logging were likewise intensified, with 613 anti-illegal fishing operations leading to 940 arrests and the seizure of fish and paraphernalia valued at P19.52 million, while 91 anti-illegal logging operations resulted in 156 arrests and the confiscation of items worth P1.65 million.
Meanwhile, manhunt operations led to the arrest of 1,643 wanted persons, including 146 most wanted individuals. Police also reported gains in the campaign against loose firearms, with 690 operations resulting in the surrender of 612 firearms and explosives and the confiscation of 85 others.
Col. Apas credited the accomplishments to the dedication and professionalism of LPPO personnel, adding that the provincial police remain committed to sustaining these efforts to ensure a safer and more secure Leyte.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
