Customs agents at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport have foiled attempts to smuggle wildlife species.
The first confiscated shipment of eight gecko lizards allegedly came from Bangkok, Thailand and consigned to a resident in Paranaque City.
Based on the import documents, the package was declared as a “commercial sample.”
Another shipment bound for Dubai, United Arab Emirates contained 40 spiderlings and five tarantulas. It was sent by a Pasay City resident who declared the content as “cosmetic products.”
The Port of NAIA turned over the lizards and spiders to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for monitoring and safekeeping.
District Collector Carmelita Talusan said the Bureau of Customs under Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero supports the initiatives of the DENR in upholding the conservation and protection of wildlife and preventing smuggling of the creatures..
The Port of NAIA was recognized by the DENR for its accomplishments and commitment to border and environment protection.
The DENR gave Bronze, Silver and Gold awards to Customs NAIA officials and personnel for their accomplishments and contributions in protecting wildlife and promoting biodiversity in the country.
NAIA was also recognized by the TRAFFIC Southeast Asia for its efforts to curb wildlife trafficking.
