Authorities seized 19.88 kilograms of suspected marijuana worth P2,385,244.80 during a late-night buy-bust operation in Kibungan, Benguet, on 22 October, after arresting a 22-year-old farmer.[1]
PDEA-CAR released lab-examination results confirming the weight and value of the marijuana, packed in 20 tightly wrapped bundles of leaves, stalks and fruiting tops — refining the initial estimate of about P2.4 million.[1] The operation in Sitio Baloc, Barangay Poblacion, was led by the PDEA-CAR Regional Special Enforcement Team with other PDEA units and Benguet police.[1] The suspect was held while charges under Republic Act 9165 were pursued; he retains the presumption of innocence.[1]