In a major blow to illegal drug networks, Philippine law enforcement authorities have successfully uprooted and incinerated approximately 21,200 fully matured high-grade marijuana plants with an estimated street value of P18.2 million. The significant operation, which also resulted in the seizure of multiple high-powered firearms, was conducted on Thursday, February 12, 2026, in the remote hinterland villages of Masjid Punjungan and Pitogo, located within the municipality of Kalingalan Caluang in Sulu province.
Coordinated Military and Police Action
Brigadier General Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, the commanding officer of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, provided detailed insights into the operation. He emphasized that the discovery of the extensive marijuana plantations points to a highly organized and well-established illegal cultivation enterprise. "The scale, maturity, and quality of the plantations indicate an organized and well-established illegal cultivation operation situated in remote and difficult terrain," Delos Santos stated, underscoring the sophisticated nature of the illicit activity.
Pursuit of Suspects and Firearms Seizure
Following the discovery, a pursuit operation was immediately launched to apprehend the alleged cultivators, identified as alias Mods and his cohorts, who managed to evade capture. During the operation, troops confiscated six high-powered firearms believed to belong to the cultivators. The seized arsenal included four M-16 rifles, one M-14 rifle, and one Garand rifle, along with corresponding ammunition. All uprooted marijuana plants were subsequently destroyed through on-site burning to ensure complete eradication.
Strategic Impact on Security
Brigadier General Delos Santos highlighted the broader implications of dismantling such large-scale marijuana plantations. "The dismantling of large-scale marijuana plantations not only disrupts illegal drug networks but also cuts off potential funding sources that may support armed and lawless elements," he explained. This operation is seen as a critical step in weakening the financial backbone of groups that threaten regional peace and security.
Unified Effort Praised
Major General Leonardo Pena, commander of the 11th Infantry Division, commended the strategic coordination among various agencies involved in the operation. He pointed out that the success reflects strong collaboration between the military, police, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). "Through close coordination among the military, police, PDEA, LGUs, and other stakeholders, we can protect communities, sustain peace, and prevent the resurgence of criminal and armed groups in Sulu," Pena affirmed, emphasizing the importance of a unified approach in combating illegal activities.
The operation underscores ongoing efforts by Philippine authorities to combat drug trafficking and enhance security in conflict-prone areas like Sulu, demonstrating a firm commitment to law enforcement and community protection.
