AUTHORITIES at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay City confiscated P29.7 million worth of methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) over the weekend.
The significant drug bust involved the seizure of 4,368 grams of shabu from the luggage of a passenger arriving from Malaysia on June 14, 2025. District Collector Yasmin Mapa announced the successful operation, highlighting the interception as a result of routine screening procedures.
The passenger was immediately apprehended following the discovery of the contraband.
Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio lauded the successful operation, emphasizing the bureau’s unwavering commitment to securing the nation’s borders against drug trafficking and all forms of smuggling.
The operation was a collaborative effort involving the BOC, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG).
This inter-agency cooperation underscores the importance of a coordinated approach to combating drug trafficking, leveraging the expertise and resources of multiple agencies to effectively disrupt illegal activities. The successful seizure demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative efforts in enhancing border security and disrupting drug trafficking networks.
The seized shabu and the arrested suspect were promptly turned over to the PDEA to initiate inquest proceedings. The suspect will face charges under Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended) and Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).
This significant drug bust serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts of Philippine authorities to combat the illegal drug trade.
The successful interception and subsequent legal proceedings underscore the government’s commitment to disrupting drug trafficking networks and holding those responsible accountable under the law. The operation reinforces the message that the Philippines remains vigilant in its fight against illegal drugs.
