The Bureau of Customs – Port of Clark, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Clark Inter-Agency Task Force Against Illegal Drugs (CRK-IATFAID), intercepted a shipment containing approximately 1,675 grams of suspected ketamine valued at ₱8,375,000, concealed inside a resin rabbit figurine.
The operation stemmed from derogatory information provided by the PDEA regarding the incoming parcel, which originated from France and was declared as “Indoor Decorative Molded Polyresin Ornament.” Upon arrival, it underwent standard Customs inspection procedures, including a K-9 sniff test that yielded positive indications for illegal drugs. This prompted authorities to conduct a 100% physical examination.
District Collector Jairus S. Reyes emphasized the importance of strong inter-agency cooperation in preventing illegal drugs from entering the country. “Kasama ang ating partner law enforcement agencies, iisa ang ating layunin—mapigilan ang pagpasok ng ilegal na droga at maprotektahan ang ating mga komunidad.” Reyes said.
During the physical examination, authorities discovered one (1) resin rabbit figurine containing a white crystalline substance suspected to be ketamine. Ketamine is a controlled substance with legitimate medical uses but is classified as a dangerous drug under Philippine law when unlawfully possessed, imported, or distributed. Initial screening using a Rigaku Spectrometer also indicated the presence of the said contraband.
A Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) was issued against the shipment for violations of Sections 1113(l)(3)(4) and (5) of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), in relation to Republic Act No. 9165, as amended.
Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to strengthening enforcement at the country’s airports and other ports of entry. “Patuloy nating babantayan ang ating mga paliparan at iba pang ports of entry. We will strengthen our enforcement and make sure our Customs frontliners are equipped to detect and stop illegal drugs and other contraband,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said.
The successful interception highlights the Port of Clark’s continued vigilance against drug smuggling and demonstrates the critical role of close coordination among government agencies in securing the country’s borders.
The BOC remains steadfast in supporting the directives and priorities of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. by strengthening border protection, enhancing enforcement, facilitating legitimate trade, and preventing the entry of illegal drugs and other prohibited commodities into the country.
