Authorities seized a total of 98.332 kilograms of marijuana, also known as “Kush,” with an estimated street value of approximately P162.2 million following an inspection and search of a distressed sailing yacht at the Subic Bay Yacht Club.

On 2 September, the Bureau of Customs–Port of Subic immediately acted on derogatory information received regarding a distressed sailing yacht at the Subic Bay Yacht Club.

Due to inclement weather, the vessel, manned by Thai and Malaysian crew members, was compelled to seek emergency shelter and repairs at the Subic Bay Yacht Club after sailing from Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, and originally bound for Taiwan. The information received indicated that the vessel might be carrying prohibited or contraband items, prompting authorities to conduct an inspection.

Acting swiftly on the information, BOC-Port of Subic District Collector Atty. Geniefelle Lagmay issued a Mission Order authorizing the inspection and search of the sailing yacht. The operation was conducted in coordination with the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Law Enforcement Department, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, representatives from the Department of Justice, barangay officials, Subic Bay Yacht Club officials, and other members of the composite enforcement team.

The inspection yielded positive results, with authorities discovering 98.332 kilograms of Kush, with an estimated street value of approximately P162.2 million.

The operation is aligned with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen border protection and intensify the government’s efforts against the trafficking and entry of illegal drugs and other prohibited goods into the country.

The seized substance was immediately turned over to the PDEA for proper disposition and appropriate legal proceedings in accordance with existing laws, rules, and regulations. NEIL ALCOBER