Authorities scored a major victory in the government’s anti-illegal drug campaign after more than 11,000 fully grown marijuana plants and 300 seedlings were discovered and destroyed in a remote upland site in Loreto on Thursday, April 16.
In a report, Police Regional Office 13 (PRO13) said the operation was carried out at around 6:20 p.m. in Sitio Bagtok, Barangay Kasapa 1, Municipality off Loreto, resulting in the eradication of illegal crops with an estimated Standard Drug Price of ₱2,212,000.
The operation was led by joint operatives from the Provincial Intelligence Unit, Loreto Municipal Police Station, and the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company of the Agusan del Sur Police Provincial Office. They were supported by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)–Agusan del Sur Provincial Office and the 60th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.
According to PRO13 Regional Director PBGEN Marcial Mariano P Magistrado IV, the successful operation stemmed from verified intelligence information about the existence of a marijuana plantation hidden deep within the area. After thorough validation and inter-agency coordination, authorities proceeded to the site—located approximately 16 kilometers from the barangay proper and accessible only by foot.
Despite the difficult terrain, law enforcement personnel trekked for hours to reach the plantation, underscoring what officials described as their commitment to dismantling illegal drug operations even in the most isolated communities.
“This accomplishment highlights the strength of collaboration between the community, the police, and our partner agencies,” Magistrado said, noting the challenging conditions faced by operatives during the mission.
All marijuana plants were uprooted and destroyed on-site in accordance with standard anti-drug procedures.
No suspects were arrested during the operation. However, authorities said they have already identified the alleged owner-cultivator of the plantation, who will face charges for violating the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Magistrado issued a stern warning to individuals involved in illegal drug activities, declaring that authorities are closing in on those responsible.
“To those behind these illegal operations—your days are numbered. The law will catch up with you,” he said.
PRO13 assured the public that intensified anti-illegal drug operations will continue across the Caraga region, particularly in remote and high-risk areas. Authorities emphasized that sustained coordination among law enforcement agencies, coupled with community support, remains crucial in the government’s push to eliminate illegal drugs and ensure safer communities.