Customs agents working with anti-narcotics operatives at Ninoy Aquino International Airport intercepted five abandoned parcels of hybrid cannabis and vape pens with marijuana oil at the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC) in Pasay City, the Bureau of Customs reported on Friday.
On Thursday, a composite team from the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (IADITG) conducted the operation, working in coordination with the Bureau of Customs and the Philippine National Police – Aviation Security Group (PNP-Avsegroup).
Consigned to individuals residing in Ilocos Norte, Cebu, Tarlac, and Misamis Oriental, the shipment originated from the United States.
The items were flagged during X-ray screening, confirmed by a K-9 unit, and manually inspected. The seized evidence was properly documented and turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency for investigation.
Despite the government’s comprehensive anti-narcotics campaign, international drug syndicates continue to use the country’s postal system for smuggling liquid marijuana, the Bureau of Customs stated.
In a statement, Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno reiterated the agency’s commitment to preventing the entry of illicit goods into the country. He said they will continue to intensify border control and enhance their coordination with partner agencies to combat illegal drug smuggling.
He also emphasized the importance of joint efforts among law enforcement agencies in combating drug trafficking and ensuring the safety and security of the people.
