BOC-NAIA seizes ₱18.7-M marijuana from 3 Bangkok passengers

The Bureau of Customs-Ninoy Aquino International Airport intercepted about 18.7 kilograms of marijuana worth an estimated ₱18.679 million during an anti-drug operation at NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City.

Three passengers arriving from Bangkok, Thailand, were arrested after Customs officers detected suspicious images in their luggage during routine baggage screening.

A physical examination of the bags led to the discovery of about 18,679 grams of marijuana concealed inside the luggage.

BOC-NAIA District Collector Maria Yasmin Obillos-Mapa said the seizure showed the importance of sustained vigilance and coordination among airport enforcement agencies.

“This successful interception reflects the vigilance and close coordination of our operating units and partner agencies,” Obillos-Mapa said.

“We will continue to strengthen our intelligence-based operations and work closely with our law enforcement partners to prevent illegal drugs from entering the country through our borders,” she added.

The operation involved the BOC, Enforcement and Security Service-Customs Anti-Illegal Drug Task Force, NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group, Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service, X-Ray Inspection Project, PDEA-Aviation Security Group and the Bureau of Immigration.

The three passengers were turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency for the filing of charges under Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, in relation to the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.

Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno commended the operation and said the bureau would continue strengthening intelligence-led enforcement and border protection.