Authorities seized over P2 million worth of marijuana and cannabis-infused items in a recent buy-bust operation, spotlighting a growing and more sophisticated drug trade in Pampanga.
Three suspected high-value individuals (HVIs), aged 24, 25, and 28, were arrested by Mabalacat City Police in Barangay Bical after attempting to sell various cannabis-based products, including marijuana-flavored vapes and oils.
Recovered during the operation were:
- 2 kilograms of dried marijuana leaves valued at P240,000,
- 520 grams of suspected Kush worth P858,000,
- 218 vape cartridges infused with marijuana, estimated at P872,000, and
- 19 bottles of marijuana oil worth P30,000.
Police said the seizure signals a shift in the local illegal drug market from traditional marijuana to high-end, processed cannabis products that often target younger consumers.
“These are not your typical street-level marijuana items,” said Pampanga Police Provincial Office Director PCOL Eugene M. Marcelo. “The suspects were distributing premium cannabis variants—disguised or packaged in ways designed to appeal to the youth.”
Marcelo noted that the availability of such items, especially vape cartridges, illustrates how illegal drug syndicates are evolving to meet consumer trends. He urged the public to remain vigilant and help authorities curb the spread of these products.
“This case reflects a disturbing shift in the local drug trade, and we are treating this with urgency. Our campaign is focused on stopping these products before they reach our homes, schools, and communities,” he added.
The suspects are now in police custody and face charges under Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Police Regional Office 3 Director PBGEN Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones, Jr. lauded the Mabalacat operatives for their swift action. “This operation is a strong message that we are serious about dismantling drug networks in the region,” he said.
Authorities are now tracking possible suppliers and distribution channels tied to the operation, as part of a broader province-wide crackdown on illegal drugs.
The public is encouraged to report suspicious activities to their nearest police stations as part of the community’s joint effort to combat drug-related crimes.
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