NATION

P1.14M marijuana seized in Bulacan sting

Franco Regala

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) operatives in Central Luzon confiscated approximately 9.5 kilograms of marijuana, valued at ₱1.14 million, during a late-night anti-drug operation in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, on Saturday, 19 July.

Authorities arrested a 29-year-old suspect, identified by the alias "Christopher," during the sting at Block 3, Lot 13 in Barangay Graceville. The operation, conducted jointly by PDEA and the Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group (PDEG), targeted the suspect, who is classified as a high-value individual in regional drug trafficking.

In a belated report to PDEG Director Brig. Gen. Edwin Quilates, officials confirmed the suspect was apprehended at 9:50 p.m. after allegedly selling marijuana to undercover agents. The contraband, with an estimated street value of ₱1.14 million, was seized as evidence.

Alias Christopher is currently detained at PDEG’s Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City for processing, while the confiscated marijuana has been transferred to the PNP Forensic Group in Camp Crame, Quezon City, for laboratory analysis. The suspect faces charges under Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

The operation underscores ongoing efforts by PDEA and PNP to dismantle narcotics networks in Central Luzon amid heightened campaigns against the illegal drug trade in the region.