Clark Freeport—Some P13.2 million worth of smuggled canned marijuana, passed-off as herbal health formula, were seized by Port of Clark authorities shortly after the hot cargoes arrived at the Clark International Airport.
Port of Clark District Collector lawyer Ruby Alameda said marijuana leaves (Kush) were neatly concealed in 14 tins with label Herbalife Formula 1 and stuffed in two cartoon boxes weighing more or less 11.569 kilos with a street value of P13.2 million based on Dangerous Drugs Board estimate.
“Two shipments contain “whey samples” from California, USA which were later discovered containing marijuana inside cans of health meal formula,” said Alameda but she did not mention the consignee of seized items.
Alameda said she issued warrants and seizure and detention of the cargoes after BOC –Clark examiners discovered the hot cargoes. She said coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency was made shortly after.
“Through the strict profiling of shipments and X-ray examination by BOC-Clark personnel on the subject shipment containing 14 cans labeled as “Herbalife Formula 1 Healthy Meal Comida Saludable”, Alameda said.
Alameda said dried marijuana leaves or Kush wrapped in transparent plastic emerged from the can when opened by BOC personnel.
Alameda said criminal charges are being prepared against the consignee for violation of R.A. No. 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act in relation to Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Alameda said the Port of Clark will remain consistent to its mandate in protecting the borders against illegal drugs despite the risks of COVID-19.