Philippine Authorities Destroy P10.3 Million Worth of Marijuana Plants in Sulu Operation
Law enforcement personnel have successfully eradicated two significant marijuana plantations with an estimated street value of P10.3 million during a targeted operation in Sulu province. The coordinated effort took place on March 3, 2026, in Masjid Punjungan village, Kalingalan Caluang municipality, marking a substantial blow against illegal drug cultivation in the region.
Details of the Operation and Plantation Destruction
Brigadier General Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, provided specific details regarding the scope of the operation. The first plantation covered approximately 1,000 square meters and contained 5,500 fully grown marijuana plants. The second, larger plantation spanned 2,000 square meters and yielded 6,000 plants.
In total, authorities discovered and destroyed 11,500 fully grown marijuana plants across a combined area of 3,000 square meters. The estimated value of the eradicated plants was calculated at P10,350,000. Following discovery, joint operatives from the 1102nd Infantry Brigade, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Sulu, and local police forces uprooted and burned all plants on-site to prevent any potential distribution.
Inter-Agency Collaboration and Ongoing Investigations
General Delos Santos commended the strong inter-agency collaboration that enabled the successful execution of this operation. He emphasized that such coordinated efforts are essential for effectively combating illegal drug activities. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency is currently conducting a thorough investigation to identify the owner or owners responsible for establishing and maintaining these two plantations.
Local government officials expressed firm support for the operation. Hadji Peping Halun, municipal administrator of Kalingalan Caluang, reiterated the Municipal Government's unwavering stand against illegal drugs and its commitment to protecting community welfare and safety.
Strategic Importance and Broader Context
Major General Leonardo Peña, commander of Joint Task Force-Orion and the 11th Infantry Division, highlighted the strategic significance of this operation. He underscored that unified action under the whole-of-nation approach remains vital for dismantling illegal drug networks and preserving peace and security throughout Sulu province.
This operation represents the second major marijuana plantation destruction in Kalingalan Caluang for the year. The first occurred on February 13, 2026, when authorities eradicated marijuana plants valued at approximately P18.2 million from two plantations located in Masjid Punjungan and Pitogo villages. These consecutive operations demonstrate the continuing commitment of Philippine government agencies to safeguard communities and prevent the resurgence of illegal drug cultivation in the region.
