Authorities from the Bureau of Customs–Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA) intercepted packages containing suspected illegal drugs which were concealed in figurines and with an estimated standard value of P114,566,400.
The operation, which was conducted on January 8, 2026, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG), resulted in the seizure of shipment originating from Congo and consigned to a resident from Quezon City.
Initially declared as malachite stones, the shipment was was flagged during X-ray inspection after exhibiting suspicious images.
A subsequent verification and 100 percent physical examination resulted in the discovery of four boxes containing suspected illegal drugs weighing 4,320 grams, 3,622 grams, 4,599 grams and 4,307 grams, respectively, with a total weight of 16,848 grams.
BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said the operation was carried out in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s directive to intensify border protection and prevent the entry of illegal drugs into the country, underscoring the government’s whole-of-nation approach to combating transnational crimes.
All seized items and involved individuals were formally turned over to the PDEA for proper disposition and further investigation. The incident constitutes violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended, and Republic Act No. 10863, otherwise known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
Nepomuceno emphasized that the interception reflects the Bureau’s firm resolve to prevent illegal drugs from entering the country: “This is not just about enforcement. It is about protecting our communities. The Bureau will remain relentless in screening, inspecting, and stopping illegal drugs at our borders.”
For her part, BOC-NAIA District Collector Atty. Yasmin O. Mapa underscored the importance of vigilance and inter-agency coordination, stating, “This result highlights the value of strict risk profiling and close coordination among enforcement units and partner agencies. Our personnel remain alert and ready to act on any shipment that poses a threat to public safety.”
“The BOC continues to strengthen its border control measures, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the country’s borders and protecting the Filipino people,” Mapa assured.
