Cocaine worth ₱43.4M seized at NAIA terminal 3; arriving passenger arrested

THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) foiled another attempt to smuggle illegal drugs into the country, intercepting approximately 8.197 kilograms of suspected cocaine from an arriving passenger at NAIA Terminal 3 on January 29, 2026.

The operation aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign.

X-ray screening of the passenger’s checked-in baggage revealed suspicious images, prompting a 100 percent physical examination. During inspection, a white powdery substance concealed inside the baggage was discovered and later confirmed to be cocaine, weighing approximately 8.197 kilograms with an estimated value of ₱43,444,100.00.

The passenger was subjected to inquest proceedings for violations of Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended), and Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).

This operation follows previous BOC-NAIA interdictions involving the same method of concealment, where cocaine was hidden inside baggage compartments and linings to evade detection.

BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno emphasized the vigilance of Customs personnel and the strength of border control measures. District Collector Atty. Yasmin O. Mapa noted the dedication of officers at NAIA to conducting thorough inspections to ensure the airport is not exploited by drug traffickers.