KIBUNGAN, Benguet – In a major blow to drug trafficking networks, police intercepted a black pickup truck carrying P7.35 million worth of suspected dried marijuana during a checkpoint operation on Thursday night, December 11, 2025. The Philippine National Police (PNP) confirmed the seizure on Friday, highlighting the driver’s failed escape attempt and the immediate visibility of the contraband inside the vehicle.
The incident unfolded near the Kibungan town hall along the Bado Dangwa National Road, where officers were conducting routine checks. When the pickup disregarded the stop signal and sped away, authorities launched a pursuit, cornering the vehicle at Sapdaan in Barangay Sagpat. Upon inspection, police discovered 61 tubular packs of dried marijuana leaves weighing approximately 61.25 kilograms, with a standard drug price value of P7.35 million.
The driver, a 30-year-old resident of Benguet, was arrested on the spot. He, along with the confiscated drugs and the vehicle, was brought to the Kibungan Municipal Police Station for documentation and filing of charges under Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002). No other occupants or accomplices were reported.
PNP Cordillera Regional Director PBGen. David Peredo commended the operatives: “This successful interception demonstrates our commitment to road safety and anti-illegal drug operations, preventing these dangerous substances from reaching our communities.” The haul underscores ongoing challenges in the Cordillera region, a known transit point for marijuana sourced from mountain plantations.
No injuries were reported, and the case is under further investigation to trace the drugs’ origin and potential distribution network.
Seizure Snapshot:
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Quantity | 61 tubular packs; 61.25 kg dried marijuana leaves |
| Estimated Value | P7.35 million |
| Vehicle | Black pickup truck |
| Suspect | 30-year-old Benguet resident |
| Location | Sapdaan, Sagpat, Kibungan, Benguet |
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