PNP destroys ₱9.27M worth of marijuana in 6 Benguet plantations

Authorities on Sunday destroyed almost P9.3 million in fully-grown marijuana plants and dried marijuana leaves across six marijuana plantations in Kibungan, Benguet, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

The destruction was carried out by PNP units from 6 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, covering six marijuana plantations over 3,650 square meters of communal forest land.

Authorities uprooted 19,350 fully grown marijuana plants and discovered 45 kilograms of dried marijuana leaves with fruiting tops with a total value of P9.27 million.

“We will relentlessly pursue illegal drug sources wherever they are hidden. Our campaign is focused on dismantling supply at its roots,” said PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr in a statement.

“Operations like this send a clear message that the PNP is present even in far-flung areas,” he added.

Prior to the eradication, operating units conducted area reconnaissance and established an observation post in an attempt to arrest the cultivators, but no individual was arrested.

All fully grown marijuana plants were uprooted and the dried marijuana leaves with fruiting tops documented and burned onsite, while samples were submitted for forensic examination. — JMA, GMA Integrated News