The Bureau of Customs – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA) has turned over 14 abandoned and seized parcels containing suspected illegal drugs, with an estimated value of ₱56.01 million, following an operation conducted at a warehouse in Pasay City.
The parcels, which originated from various countries in Asia, Europe, and the United States, were flagged during X-ray screening due to suspicious images. These were subsequently subjected to 100% physical examination and K9 inspection in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).
Further inspection led to the discovery of suspected illegal substances, including methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu” (7,005 grams), high-grade marijuana or “kush” (5,922 grams), 100 pieces of vape cartidges with liquid marijuana, and opium poppy (8,177 grams), with a total estimated value of ₱56,010,700. The prohibited items were concealed in various goods, including water filters, a speaker, and assorted food items.
Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno warned individuals and criminal groups attempting to exploit international parcel and courier services for smuggling illegal drugs and other contraband.
“Sa mga nagtatangkang gamitin ang parcel at air cargo shipments para magpuslit ng ilegal na droga at iba pang kontrabando, malinaw ang aming mensahe: hindi kami magpapatinag. Patuloy naming pinapalakas ang aming monitoring at inspection systems, katuwang ang aming partner agencies, upang matiyak na nahaharang ang mga iligal na kargamento at mapanagot ang mga responsable,” the Commissioner said.
The operation was carried out through the collaborative efforts of the Customs Anti-Illegal Drug Task Force and the PDEA. All seized items were formally turned over to the PDEA for laboratory examination and further investigation.
BOC-NAIA, under the leadership of District Collector Yasmin Obillos-Mapa, remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the Filipino people by ensuring that international mail and cargo channels are not used as conduits for illicit trade and transnational criminal activities.
