The Bureau of Customs (BOC) at the Port of Manila (POM) successfully intercepted a shipment declared as ‘Vermicelli and Custard Sauce’ from Pakistan, which arrived on January 15, 2025, and was found to contain methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as ‘shabu,’ valued at approximately PhP2.7 billion.

Flagged and placed under an Alert Order initiated by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), in coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation-Dangerous Drugs Division (NBI-DDD), and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the shipment was subjected to an investigation for potential violations of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) and R.A. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Subsequently, a 100% physical examination was conducted by the assigned Customs Examiner along with representatives from the Chamber of Customs Brokers, Inc., CIIS, Enforcement and Security Service, X-ray Inspection Project, and law enforcement units including the NBI and the PDEA, revealing a total of 471 cartons of vermicelli, 58 cartons of methamphetamine, and 169 cartons of custard powder.

This operation reflects a collaborative approach in curbing the smuggling of contraband such as shabu, in accordance with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for a unified national strategy against illegal trafficking.

During a joint press conference with the NBI and Department of Justice (DOJ), the BOC-Intelligence Group Deputy Commissioner outlined the discrepancies that led to the shipment’s flagging and investigation. He stressed that intelligence-sharing and close collaboration with the NBI enabled the BOC to track down those behind the illicit operation.

Highlighting the significance of this successful interdiction, NBI Director Jaime B. Santiago expressed his appreciation to the BOC, PDEA, and DOJ prosecutors who helped in ensuring a solid case build-up.

Meanwhile, POM-District Collector Alexander E. Alviar emphasized the importance of close coordination among government agencies in combatting illegal imports: “This successful operation demonstrates the BOC’s strengthened profiling and screening procedures, as well as our unwavering commitment to national security and public health.”

In view of the findings, a Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) was issued against the entire shipment, citing violations under the CMTA, particularly sections 118, 1113, and 1400 in relation to the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Under the leadership of Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, the BOC continues to prioritize efforts to safeguard the country’s borders from illicit activities, particularly drug smuggling. “The BOC will remain vigilant in enforcing strict customs regulations and working with our law enforcement partners to protect the safety and security of our nation,” Commissioner Rubio stated.