In a major breakthrough against transnational drug smuggling, the Bureau of Customs (BOC), in close coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and with the assistance of the Port Management Office (PMO) NCR-South, intercepted approximately 43 kilograms of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, locally known as shabu, valued at an estimated ₱292.4 million.
The high-stakes joint operation took place on August 20, 2026, at the Manila International Container Terminal (MICT).
Operation Highlights
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Contraband Discovered: Approximately 43 kg of high-grade shabu with an estimated street value of ₱292.4 million.
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Origin & Declaration: Two 20-foot shipping containers originating from Afghanistan, falsely declared to contain “talc stones.”
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Concealment Method: The illicit drugs were ingeniously hidden inside fabric pouches designed to mimic the appearance of talc stones and coated with a layer of plaster of Paris to evade K9 units and physical inspection.
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Timeline: The suspect containers arrived at the MICT earlier this year on March 28, 2026, and underwent rigorous risk profiling and monitoring before targeted physical examination.
Following comprehensive risk profiling and intelligence monitoring, authorities executed a 100% physical examination of the subject containers.
During the inspection, BOC and PDEA operatives discovered the suspicious fabric pouches disguised as mineral cargo. Subsequent laboratory examinations by anti-narcotics experts conclusively confirmed that the recovered substance was positive for methamphetamine hydrochloride.
The successful interception underscores the unyielding commitment of the Philippine government to dismantle drug trafficking syndicates and secure the nation’s borders.
Joint law enforcement agencies are continuing intensive follow-up investigations to identify and prosecute all individuals, syndicates, and local collaborators linked to the illegal shipment. The BOC and PDEA remain on high alert, enforcing stringent security measures across all ports of entry to block the entry of dangerous drugs into the country.
