Government agents at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) intercepted five smuggled parcels containing illegal drugs worth more than P6.8 million.
The parcels were seized at the Central Mail Exchange Center in Pasay City. They originated from Thailand, Canada, and California, and were destined for individuals in Tondo, Manila; Taytay, Rizal; Bulacan; Pampanga; and Mandaue City.
Based on import documents, the shippers misdeclared the contents as toys, cards, books, and chili paste, a clear case of technical smuggling.
Customs examiners discovered 4,877 grams of kush, a type of hybrid cannabis, along with seven disposable vapes containing 63 ml of cannabis oil, after conducting a 100 percent examination of the parcels.
The operation on Friday conducted by a composite team from the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group, the Bureau of Customs (BOC), and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, was carried out in accordance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify the fight against illegal drugs.
The BOC emphasized that despite the ongoing anti-narcotics campaign, international drug syndicates continue to exploit the postal system for smuggling prohibited substances.
Commissioner Bien Rubio reiterated the agency’s commitment to preventing illicit goods from entering the country. He highlighted the importance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking and ensure the safety and security of the people.
