The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has intercepted a package containing methamphetamine, also known as shabu, at a warehouse in Pasay City.
In a statement, the bureau reported that the BOC-Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) seized around 32 kilograms of illegal drugs valued at approximately P218.48 million.
The parcel, falsely labeled as "machinery muffler" originating from Zimbabwe, underwent thorough scrutiny by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), the BOC said.
The shipment was also subjected to screening by the X-Ray Inspection Project, K9 dog sniffing, and physical inspection at the port, all of which led to the detection of concealed shabu inside the mufflers.
Working in collaboration with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group, the recipient of the package was apprehended.
The BOC said that legal actions will also be taken for violations of the Customs Modernization Tariff Act and Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.
NAIA District Collector Yasmin O. Mapa said the airport's enhanced border security measures have played a pivotal role in promptly identifying and seizing the illegal drug shipment.
“This seizure represents the effective policies of the Bureau on border protection and underscores the effectiveness of the port’s customs officers,” Mapa said.
On the other hand, Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio said the agency will continue its drive to combat illegal drugs entering the country.
“This is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to prevent its proliferation to the detriment of our countrymen. This seizure showcases our intensified efforts and dedication,” Rubio said.