Authorities destroyed marijuana plants worth more than P10.6 million in a coordinated anti-drug operation conducted by the Police Regional Office Cordillera Administrative Region (PRO CAR) on March 17, 2026.
According to the PRO CAR Regional Operations Division, operatives discovered seven marijuana plantation sites across different areas in Benguet. These included barangays Kayapa in Bakun, Pudong in Kapangan, and Tacadang and Badeo in Kibungan.
The operation led to the eradication of 28,400 fully grown marijuana plants. In addition, authorities seized 41,690 grams of dried marijuana. The total estimated Standard Drug Price of the confiscated illegal drugs reached P10,682,800.
Police said the success of the operation was due to close coordination among multiple units. These included the Municipal Police Stations of Bakun, Kapangan, and Kibungan, along with specialized units from the Benguet Police Provincial Office, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 15, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency in the Cordillera Administrative Region.
All marijuana plants discovered during the operation were immediately destroyed on-site in accordance with standard operating procedures.
Authorities said investigations are ongoing to identify individuals responsible for the illegal plantations. Efforts are also being intensified to prevent similar activities in the region.
The Philippine National Police continues to call on the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies. Officials emphasized that community support remains essential in maintaining peace and order and in addressing illegal drug activities in local areas.
