By Ferdinand Patinio
MANILA – Authorities headed by the Bureau of Customs – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA) have intercepted shipments containing 16,150 grams of shabu worth over PHP109 million in Pasay City.
In a statement on Friday, Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the two representatives of the consignee logistics company were arrested onsite for violation of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002).
The shipments, declared as e-commerce consolidated packages, arrived from Hanoi, Vietnam, with an estimated standard value of PHP109.82 million, were intercepted at the Paircargo Warehouse on Oct. 6.
Nepomuceno said three styrofoam boxes containing 26 packages of white crystalline substances concealed alongside packs of coffee powder were discovered during physical examination following the detection of suspicious images in x-ray screening.
Field testing conducted by the Customs Anti-lllegal Drugs Task Force (CAIDTF) and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) yielded positive results for methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu.
The seized illegal drugs were turned over to PDEA for proper disposition and further investigation.
“This interception highlights the bureau’s vigilance and dedication to preventing drug syndicates from using legitimate trade channels for illicit operations. Our commitment to border protection remains steadfast and uncompromising,” the BOC chief said.
According to District Collector Alexandra Lumontad, the case also constitutes violations of Republic Act 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act), particularly Section 1400 (Misdeclaration), Section 1401 (Unlawful Importation and Exportation), and Section 117 (Regulated Importation and Exportation).
The operation was in coordination with the PDEA and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG). (PNA)
