Over P18.5 million worth of illegal drugs and misdeclared goods in several ports were hampered in the past two weeks, the Bureau of Customs reported Friday, Sept. 1.

This, according to the Customs, is attributed to its X-ray Inspection Project (XIP) wherein 107 active X-ray machines of various types are deployed across multiple ports, sub-ports, and airports in the country. 

“Utilization of these machines have played a pivotal role in identifying hidden contraband within shipments without the need for invasive searches, facilitating both efficient trade processes and robust security measures,” Customs said in a statement.

“The XIP has consistently demonstrated its commitment in safeguarding the nation through diligent monitoring and non-intrusive inspection of shipments entering ports nationwide,” it added.

The Customs said that the XIP advocates real-time information exchange among all ports to stop smuggling attempts and offers full support for the "Remote Image Analysis Center (RIAC) Project," which enhances the efficiency of the Bureau of Customs' border protection.

Meanwhile, more than P1.16 billion worth of illegal drugs were seized through the x-ray project from January to August this year.

“(The X-ray Inspection Project) stands as a testament to the organization's commitment to innovation, vigilance, and the highest standards of service,” the Customs stated. (Xander Dave Ceballos)