₱16M in marijuana destroyed in back-to-back operations in Benguet

Over P16 million worth of marijuana were destroyed over the weekend in two areas in Benguet, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

In a statement on Monday, the PNP said the back-to-back anti-narcotics operations resulted in the destruction of more than 58,500 marijuana plants and dried leaves.

An operation at the disputed boundary of Sugpon, Ilocos Sur and Barangay Tacadang in Kibungan, Benguet on February 22 led to the recovery and destruction of 55,400 fully grown marijuana plants worth P13.076 million.

In the morning of February 23, police units conducted another eradication operation in Barangay Tacadang, Kibungan in Benguet.

Law enforcers recovered 3,100 fully grown marijuana plants and 20 kilograms of dried leaves and fruiting tops valued at P3.02 million.

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. assured that the PNP will not stop in cleaning up communities of illegal drugs.

He also reminded the public of their crucial role in the anti-narcotics campaign.

“Kailangan namin ang suporta ng komunidad. Huwag matakot magsumbong at makipagtulungan sa pulisya. Ang laban kontra droga ay laban ng bawat Pilipino,” Nartatez said.

(We also need the community’s support. Do not be afraid to report and cooperate with the police. The fight against drugs is a fight for each Filipino.) — JMA, GMA Integrated News