P6.3-M cannabis shrubs torched in Benguet – BusinessWorld Online
BAKUN, BENGUET — Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and policemen torched at least P6.36 million worth of fully grown marijuana plants in a joint eradication operation in Barangay Kayapa, Bakun, Benguet on Monday.
The operation, carried out from early morning until evening, marks a significant blow against illegal drug cultivation in the area.
Starting at 7 a.m. Monday, operatives led by PDEA-La Union and joined by Bakun, Benguet policemen, PDEA Pangasinan, PDEA Baguio and Benguet and the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit of the Benguet police, trekked rugged terrain and cleared two separate marijuana plantation sites until 9 p.m.
At least 3,506 square meters with a total of 31,800 fully grown marijuana plants were uprooted, then torched.
PDEA Regional Director Atty. Benjamin G. Gaspi believed “(their) operation dealt a heavy financial loss to those behind the illegal plantations and demonstrated the authorities’ capability to strike even in remote areas.”
He added: “This successful operation is part of PDEA’s intensified campaign against illegal drug sources. Our continued collaboration with local police units ensures that no area will serve as a safe haven for illegal drug activities.” — Artemio A. Dumlao