THE Bureau of Customs – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA), intercepted 7,005 grams of suspected Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, or shabu, during an operation at NAIA Terminal 3 on August 16, 2025.
A checked-in luggage belonging to a South African passenger underwent non-intrusive inspection, which revealed a suspicious image suggesting possible concealment of illegal drugs. A subsequent physical examination confirmed the discovery of 7,005 grams of shabu, valued at ₱47.634 million. The operation was conducted in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG). The suspect will face charges for violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).
In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to safeguard communities from the proliferation of illegal drugs, BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said, “This operation reflects our firm resolve to prevent illicit substances from entering the country and to protect the public from their harmful impact.”
Under the leadership of District Collector Alexandra Y. Lumontad, the BOC-NAIA reaffirmed its vigilance against attempts to use international gateways for illicit trade. “This seizure underscores our commitment to ensuring that NAIA remains a secure entry point where public safety and the nation’s interests are always protected,” Lumontad said.P47
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