SEIZED AND DESTROYED. Government operatives uproot and destroy about PHP18.2 million worth of marijuana plants as they discovered two marijuana plantations in Kalingalan Caluang, Sulu on Thursday (Feb. 12, 2026). Authorities are tracking down the alleged cultivators. (Photo courtesy of 11th Infantry Division)
ZAMBOANGA CITY – Authorities have uprooted about 21,200 fully grown, high-grade marijuana plants valued at PHP18.2 million, and seized high-powered firearms during a law enforcement operation in two remote plantations in Sulu province on Thursday.
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino Delos Santos, the Army’s 1102nd Infantry Brigade commander, said Friday that the marijuana plantations were discovered in the villages of Masjid Punjungan and Pitogo, both in Kalingalan Caluang town.
“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 said in his report.
The alleged cultivators, identified as alias Mods and his cohorts, evaded arrest and are being pursued.
Troops also seized six high-powered firearms left behind by the alleged cultivators – four M-16 rifles, an M-14 rifle, and a Garand rifle, as well as ammunition.
Delos Santos said ongoing follow-up operations aim to maintain pressure and prevent criminal groups from gaining a foothold in the province.
Maj. Gen. Leonardo Peña, commander of the Army’s 11th Infantry Division, highlighted the importance of unified action, noting that the successful law enforcement operation shows strong coordination among the military, police, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.
“These results demonstrate the effectiveness of a whole-of-government approach,” Peña said in a statement.
The uprooted marijuana plants were burned onsite. (PNA)
