Following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify the campaign against illegal drugs and bolster border security, the Bureau of Customs – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA), in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG), successfully intercepted six parcels containing illegal drugs with a total estimated street value of PhP4,433,000 at the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC) in Pasay City.

The seized parcels, originating from Ireland, the Netherlands, and Thailand, were misdeclared as items such as skincare products, a board game, and plumbing materials labeled as “Sistema/Shower Set/Pipe Set” and “Kitchen Water Purifier.” Upon physical examination, customs personnel discovered a total of 1,330 tablets of Ecstasy and 362 grams of heroin concealed within the packages.

The confiscated illegal drugs were turned over to PDEA for further investigation and case build-up against the individuals involved, in possible violation of Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) and Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio reaffirmed the agency’s commitment, stating, “The Bureau of Customs remains relentless in its efforts to secure the country’s borders against illegal drugs, which pose grave threats to the health and safety of our people.”

This latest operation highlights President Marcos’ commitment to curbing the entry of illegal drugs into the country by reinforcing law enforcement efforts and enhancing inter-agency coordination. Under the leadership of District Collector Atty. Yasmin O. Mapa, BOC-NAIA continues to bolster its enforcement measures, improving shipment screening and working closely with partner agencies to ensure the effective interdiction of illicit drugs.