The Bureau of Customs (BOC), through the Port of Subic, in coordination with partner law enforcement agencies, seized a total of 98.332 kilograms of marijuana, also known as “Kush,” with an estimated street value of approximately ₱162.2 million following an inspection and search of a distressed sailing yacht at the Subic Bay Yacht Club.
The BOC–Port of Subic immediately acted on derogatory information received regarding a distressed sailing yacht at the Subic Bay Yacht Club (SBYC).
Due to inclement weather, the vessel, manned by Thai and Malaysian crew members, was compelled to seek emergency shelter and repairs at the SBYC after sailing from Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, and originally bound for Taiwan. The information received indicated that the vessel might be carrying prohibited or contraband items, prompting authorities to conduct an inspection.
Acting swiftly on the information, BOC-Port of Subic District Collector Atty. Geniefelle Lagmay issued a Mission Order authorizing the inspection and search of the sailing yacht.
The operation was conducted in coordination with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Law Enforcement Department (SBMA-LED), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), representatives from the Department of Justice (DOJ), barangay officials, SBYC officials, and other members of the composite enforcement team.
The inspection yielded positive results, with authorities discovering 98.332 kilograms of Kush, with an estimated street value of approximately ₱162.2 million.
“The Port of Subic will remain vigilant and resolute in carrying out its mandate to secure our borders and protect the Filipino people from illicit and prohibited goods.”
“This successful operation is a clear manifestation of the Bureau of Customs’ commitment to Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno’s marching order to protect our borders at all times. We acted immediately upon receipt of the information, and through the swift coordination and vigilance of our personnel and partner agencies, we were able to prevent a significant quantity of dangerous drugs from entering our communities. The Port of Subic will remain vigilant and resolute in carrying out its mandate to secure our borders and protect the Filipino people from illicit and prohibited goods,” Lagmay said.
The operation is aligned with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen border protection and intensify the government’s efforts against the trafficking and entry of illegal drugs and other prohibited goods into the country.
The seized substance was immediately turned over to the PDEA for proper disposition and appropriate legal proceedings in accordance with existing laws, rules, and regulations.
“Pinatutunayan nito na sa mabilis at intelligence-driven na operasyon, napipigilan natin ang pagpasok ng mga illegal at mapanganib na kontrabando sa bansa.”
“This seizure demonstrates the BOC’s continued vigilance in protecting our borders from dangerous drugs. Pinatutunayan nito na sa mabilis at intelligence-driven na operasyon, napipigilan natin ang pagpasok ng mga illegal at mapanganib na kontrabando sa bansa. We commend the Port of Subic and our partner agencies for their swift action,” Nepomuceno said.
The successful operation underscores the BOC Port of Subic’s commitment to strengthening border protection and preventing the entry of prohibited and illicit goods into the country. It likewise highlights the importance of inter-agency cooperation and intelligence-driven enforcement in safeguarding the country’s borders.
The BOC Port of Subic remains steadfast in fulfilling its mandate to secure the nation’s borders, facilitate legitimate trade, and protect the Filipino people from illicit activities and dangerous contraband.
