The Bureau of Customs – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA), in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG), intercepted packages containing suspected illegal drugs with an estimated standard value of P114,566,400.
The shipment, declared as malachite stones and originating from Congo, was flagged during X-ray inspection after exhibiting suspicious images.
It was subsequently subjected to verification and a 100 percent physical examination.
The examination uncovered four (4) boxes containing suspected illegal drugs weighing 4,320 grams, 3,622 grams, 4,599 grams, and 4,307 grams, respectively, with a total weight of 16,848 grams.
This operation was carried out in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify border protection and prevent the entry of illegal drugs into the country, underscoring the government’s whole-of-nation approach to combating transnational crimes.
Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno emphasized that the interception reflects the Bureau’s firm resolve to prevent illegal drugs from entering the country.
“This is not just about enforcement. It is about protecting our communities.”
“This is not just about enforcement. It is about protecting our communities. The Bureau will remain relentless in screening, inspecting, and stopping illegal drugs at our borders,” Nepomuceno said.
The seized items and involved individuals were formally turned over to the PDEA for proper disposition and further investigation.
The incident constitutes violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended, and Republic Act No. 10863, otherwise known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
BOC-NAIA District Collector Atty. Yasmin Mapa underscored the importance of vigilance and inter-agency coordination.
“Our personnel remain alert and ready to act on any shipment that poses a threat to public safety.”
“This result highlights the value of strict risk profiling and close coordination among enforcement units and partner agencies. Our personnel remain alert and ready to act on any shipment that poses a threat to public safety,” Mapa said.
The BOC continues to strengthen its border control measures, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the country’s borders and protecting the Filipino people.
