THE Bureau of Customs – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA) intercepted more than eight kilograms of cocaine with an estimated value of ₱43,428,200 from a male arriving passenger at the NAIA Terminal 3.
BOC-NAIA District Collector Atty. Yasmin O. Mapa said the operation “reflects the dedication of our frontliners in conducting thorough examinations and ensuring that our airports are not exploited by drug traffickers.”
Mapa also assured that the BOC-NAIA remains steadfast in protecting the country’s borders and communities as it also continues to intensify inspection protocols in support of the national government’s anti-drug campaign and its commitment to safeguarding public safety.
It was learned that when the said passenger arrived on January 22, 2026, BOC personnel detected suspicious images during the x-ray screening of his checked-in baggage.
This prompted the luggage to be tagged for verification and once a 100% physical examination was immediately conducted, it led to the discovery of white crystalline substance suspected to be cocaine weighing approximately 8.194 kilograms and concealed inside the baggage.
In coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter- Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG), the seized substance yielded positive results during field testing and was secured and turned over to PDEA for confirmatory laboratory examination, proper disposition, and further investigation.
Mapa said the concerned passenger now faces violation of Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended) and Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).
BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno, for his part, lauded the BOC-NAIA for its continued vigilance , citing its importance at international gateways.
“This interception highlights the critical role of alert inspection and inter-agency coordination in preventing illegal drugs from entering the country.,” Nepomuceno said.
