PRO CAR, PDEA seize 90 marijuana plants in greenhouse raid

TUBLAY, Benguet — The Police Regional Office Cordillera Administrative Region (PRO CAR) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency–CAR (PDEA-CAR) seized 90 fully grown marijuana plants from a greenhouse in Barangay Caponga, Tublay, authorities said Thursday.

The operation on March 26, 2026, followed a March 12 buy-bust arrest of the greenhouse owner.

After subsequent monitoring, the Regional Trial Court, First Judicial Region in La Trinidad, Benguet, issued a search warrant on March 24.

The raid was led by PRO CAR Regional Director Police Brigadier General Ericson D. Dilag and PDEA-CAR Regional Director Martin R. Francia.

Also present were PCOL Ledon D. Monte, Deputy Regional Director for Operations, and PCOL Lambert A. Suerte, Benguet Provincial Police Director, along with their respective operating units, RIU-14 and PDEA-CAR.

Representatives from the local government and media were invited to ensure transparency during the operation.

Authorities said the 90 marijuana plants, with a standard drug price of PhP18,000, were uprooted and destroyed to prevent replanting.

Sufficient samples were preserved and turned over to the Regional Forensic Unit–CAR for laboratory examination.

PBGEN Dilag emphasized the importance of community involvement in detecting illegal drugs early.

“Vigilance, coordination, and strong partnerships are essential in sustaining the region’s anti-illegal drug efforts,” he said.

The operation underscores ongoing collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities in the Cordillera region, with PRO CAR urging the public to report suspicious activities promptly to maintain a drug-free environment.