PDEA destroys P2.3M marijuana in Benguet

BENGUET — The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) destroyed 9,900 fully grown marijuana plants and 8,500 seedlings worth P2.32 million during a three-day operation in Tacadang, Kibungan from 26 to 28 October.

The illegal crops, spread across 2,403 square meters in seven plots, were torched by joint forces from PDEA-Cordillera, Abra offices, and Kibungan police. No suspects were arrested.

Earlier efforts

On 19 October, PDEA-Soccsksargen uprooted 11,502 marijuana plants worth P2.3 million in a plantation spanning Tupi, South Cotabato, and Columbio, Sultan Kudarat. PDEA-12 Director Benjamin Recites III urged communities to “continue sharing intel to curb drug spread,” citing public tips as critical to recent raids.

WPS drug probe

PDEA is also investigating high-grade marijuana kush found floating in the West Philippine Sea from 8 to 20 October. Fishermen retrieved vacuum-sealed packages in Sabina Shoal, later confirmed as marijuana kush by the PNP. Spokesman Joseph Calulut called it a “rare find” and hinted at links to transnational smuggling.

Authorities reiterated intensified coordination with the coast guard, navy, and local units to combat drug networks. The agency is also working to identify the owner of the Benguet land where the marijuana was cultivated, as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle illegal drug operations at their source.