Continuing its aggressive stance against the entry of illicit substances, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Clark, in coordination with the Clark Inter-Agency Task Force Against Illegal Drugs (CRK-IATFAID), successfully seized 712 grams of high-grade marijuana (kush) with an estimated street value of ₱1.068 million.
The shipment, which originated from California, USA, arrived during the second week of January 2026. While the parcel was declared as “jeans” and destined for Batangas, it was flagged for further inspection after the X-ray Inspection Project (XIP) detected suspicious skeletal images.
Following the X-ray alert, Customs Examiners conducted a 100% physical examination. The inspection was witnessed by operatives from:
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Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA)
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Philippine National Police (PNP)
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CRK-IATFAID Members
The examination uncovered a plastic bag containing dried leaves and fruiting tops. Subsequent chemical analysis by PDEA confirmed the substance as marijuana, a dangerous drug classified under Republic Act No. 9165.
A Warrant of Seizure and Detention has been issued against the shipment. The seizure cited violations of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), specifically:
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Section 118(g): Prohibited Importation
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Section 119(d): Restricted Importation
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Section 1113: Property Subject to Seizure and Forfeiture
“This seizure reflects our firm resolve to keep our airport gateways secure and to prevent illegal drugs from reaching our communities,” stated District Collector Jairus S. Reyes.
Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno emphasized that the operation aligns with the national security priorities of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. “Our officers, in close coordination with law enforcement partners, remain steadfast and vigilant, leaving no stone unturned in our mission to protect our borders,” Nepomuceno said. “By consistently pursuing this collective effort, we strive to create a safer environment for the public.”
