BUREAU of Customs (BOC) personnel at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) intercepted a shipment of 50 live endangered tortoises found concealed inside the luggage of a passenger arriving from Bangkok, Thailand.
The traveler, a Malaysian national, drew attention during routine security checks when x‑ray scans showed unusual contents in his baggage, prompting officers to conduct a full physical inspection. Upon opening the bags, authorities discovered the animals hidden within, carefully packed but clearly intended to be transported without proper documentation or permits.
Experts identified the creatures as Radiated Tortoises and Indian Star Tortoises — species listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), meaning their trade is strictly regulated or prohibited to prevent extinction.
Following the seizure, BOC officials coordinated immediately with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Protection and Compliance Division (DENR‑EPCD) and the Bureau of Animal Industry to handle the wildlife properly. The tortoises were documented, recorded in an official inventory, and formally turned over to the DENR for safekeeping and appropriate care.
The Malaysian passenger is currently held under custody and faces legal action for violating Republic Act No. 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, as well as provisions of Republic Act No. 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act. These laws impose heavy penalties, fines, and imprisonment for anyone caught bringing protected species into or out of the country without legal authority. The case highlights the government’s strict stance against illegal wildlife trafficking, which remains a major threat to global biodiversity.
Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno praised the joint effort that led to the successful interception, stating: “We will not allow our airports to be used as gateways for illegal wildlife trade. We will continue to intensify border security, together with other agencies, to protect our environment and hold violators accountable.” He also commended the NAIA port team, Enforcement and Security Service, Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service, and partner agencies for their vigilance and cooperation. Under the leadership of District Collector Yasmin Mapa and in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directives, BOC‑NAIA remains committed to strengthening border controls and stopping all forms of wildlife smuggling.
