PNP eradicates P4.8-M worth of marijuana in Benguet plantation

The Philippine National Police (PNP) over the weekend destroyed a marijuana plantation covering several hectares in Benguet’s mountains, eradicating P4.8 million worth of fully-grown marijuana plants and dried marijuana stalks.

In a statement on Sunday, the PNP said its 1st Benguet Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) led the destruction along with other police units and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Sitio Dalipey, Tacadang in Kibungan, Benguet the day before.

Destroyed were 18,000 fully grown marijuana plants and 10 kilograms of dried marijuana stalks worth P4.8 million.

Authorities uncovered six plantation sites and a storage area hidden in a communal forest spanning roughly 2,250 square meters.

PNP acting chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. assured that the police force will maintain its vigilance against illegal drugs and criminal groups especially in remote areas.

“Hindi lamang sa lungsod kundi pati sa malalayong lugar, patuloy ang PNP sa pagbabantay upang maprotektahan ang publiko,” he said.

(Not only in cities but in far off areas, the PNP will continue to keep guard and protect the public.)

“Our teams are committed to pursuing illegal drug operations wherever they exist, leaving no opportunity for criminals to exploit. Ang mga komunidad sa Benguet ay panatag na alam na may nagbabantay at kumikilos laban sa ilegal na droga sa kanilang lugar,” Nartatez added.

(Our teams are committed to pursuing illegal drug operations wherever they exist, leaving no opportunity for criminals to exploit. Communities in Benguet can be assured that there is someone guarding them and working to end illegal drugs in their area.) — JMA, GMA Integrated News