Manila: Authorities continue to intensify their anti-illegal drug operations in Ilocos Sur, resulting in the discovery and destruction of marijuana plants with an estimated value of PHP4.6 million during the latest eradication campaign.

According to Philippines News Agency, Colonel Agosto Asuncion, director of the Ilocos Sur Police Provincial Office (ISPPO), confirmed this following the discovery of two marijuana plantations covering an area of 2,000 square meters with 23,000 fully grown marijuana plants in a mountainous area of Barangay Licungan, Sugpon town.

'Once again, we have demonstrated that illegal marijuana cultivation has no place in the province,' said Asuncion in a statement as he lauded the operating personnel for their firm commitment to eradicate marijuana as part of the intensified campaign against illegal drugs. He underscored that the Ilocos Sur police will continue coordinating with partner law enforcement agencies until illegal marijuana cultivation is completely eliminated in the province.

Since January this year, over PHP58 million worth of marijuana plants have been destroyed, mostly in the rugged terrain within the boundaries of Ilocos Sur and Benguet province. As in previous operations, the uprooted marijuana plants were properly documented before destruction in accordance with established procedures by law enforcement agencies.

The operation also included surveillance and mapping to identify additional potential cultivation sites and prevent the resurgence of illegal plantations. Law enforcement agencies continually urge residents to remain vigilant and report suspected illegal drug cultivation in their communities.