A MULTI-AGENCY effort led by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) resulted in the seizure of suspected illegal drugs valued at an estimated P114,566,400.
The drugs were discovered on January 8, 2026, concealed within a shipment declared as malachite stones originating from Congo.
The interception was a collaborative effort between the BOC-NAIA, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG). The shipment was initially flagged during X-ray inspection due to suspicious images, prompting a thorough verification and 100 percent physical examination. The examination revealed four boxes containing the suspected illegal drugs, weighing 4,320 grams, 3,622 grams, 4,599 grams, and 4,307 grams, respectively, for a total weight of 16,848 grams.
This successful operation aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen border protection and prevent the entry of illegal drugs into the country, highlighting the government’s comprehensive approach to combating transnational crime. The seized items and involved individuals have been turned over to the PDEA for further investigation and proper disposition. The incident represents violations of Republic Act No. 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended, and Republic Act No. 10863, the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno emphasized the Bureau’s dedication to preventing 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,” he stated. BOC-NAIA District Collector Atty. Yasmin O. Mapa highlighted the importance of vigilance and inter-agency coordination, noting, “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 reinforce its border control measures, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the country’s borders and protecting the Filipino people.
