P6.16M kush declared as polyester rug seized in Clark

Some P6.16-million worth of high-grade marijuana or kush were confiscated by authorities inside a shipment declared as “polyester rug runner” from the United States.

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Clark and the Clark Inter-Agency Task Force Against Illegal Drugs (CRK-IATFAID) intercepted the illegal drugs as part of their intensified border enforcement measures.

The seized drugs were weighed at 4.11 kilograms, and was intended for San Mateo, Rizal.

Irregular imaging detected by the X-ray Inspection Project (XIP) triggered a 100% physical examination, led by Customs Examiners and witnessed by operatives from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and other CRK-IATFAID members.

Inspectors discovered a cylindrical container concealing three black transparent plastic bags containing dried leaves and fruiting tops suspected to be marijuana.

Chemical analysis conducted by the PDEA later confirmed the substance as marijuana, classified as a dangerous drug under Republic Act No. 9165, as amended.

The shipment was found to have violated Sections 118(g), 119(d), and 1113 paragraphs (f), (i), and (l)(3) and (4) of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), in relation to RA 9165.

District Collector Jairus S. Reyes emphasized the operational significance of the seizure, stating, “This interception reflects the value of coordinated enforcement and disciplined inspection protocols. Preventing illegal drugs from passing through our ports is a direct safeguard for our communities.”

Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said, “The Bureau of Customs exercises vigilant oversight at all ports to ensure operations remain safe, lawful, and efficient. Coordinated enforcement with our partner agencies is central to safeguarding our borders and maintaining public trust.