DESTROYED. Chemists and staff of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 10 (Northern Mindanao) prepare the illegal drugs and substances amounting to PHP4.5 million for destruction at the crematorium of the Cosmopolitan Memorial in Cagayan de Oro City on Tuesday (May 21, 2024). Topping the dangerous drugs destroyed was "shabu," with an estimated street value of PHP2.45 million. (Photo courtesy of PDEA-10)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 10 (Northern Mindanao) led the destruction of PHP4.5 million worth of illegal drugs and substances here on Tuesday.

During the destruction procedure, PDEA-10 Director Benjamin Gaspi said the action "marked a significant victory" in eliminating illegal drugs, as mandated by Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

"We also have dangerous drugs turned over by hospitals and pharmacies, and these drugs were expired," Gaspi said.

The drugs collectively weighed approximately 17,763 grams, with "shabu" being the highest at 361.6 grams, with a street value of about PHP2.4 million.

Dried marijuana leaves weighing 14,537 grams were also destroyed, valued at PHP545,000.

In addition, marijuana plants amounting to PHP861,000 were razed, including some drug derivatives.

Witnessing the destruction were representatives of the Philippine National Police, the Department of Justice, and other stakeholders. (PNA)