The Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Clark seized PhP729,000 worth of high-grade “Kush” misdeclared as garments. The operation was conducted in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the Philippine National Police – Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEG), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Pampanga District Office, the Department of Justice (DOJ), and local officials from Brgy. Dau, City of Mabalacat.
The shipment, which arrived on October 11, 2024, was declared as two (2) pieces of “garments.” The BOC’s X-ray Inspection Project (XIP) flagged it for physical examination after suspicious images were detected. A K-9 unit further indicated the presence of illegal substances. Upon physical examination, authorities discovered a pouch containing dried leaves and fruiting tops suspected to be high-grade marijuana, commonly referred to as “Kush.”

Samples were taken and submitted to PDEA for chemical analysis, which confirmed the substance as marijuana, classified as a dangerous drug under R.A. No. 9165, as amended.

A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued for the shipment for violations of Section 118(g), 119(d), and 1113 paragraphs f, i, and l (3 and 4) of R.A. No. 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), in relation to R.A. No. 9165.

Acting District Collector Jairus Reyes lauded the BOC personnel for their steadfast dedication in combating drug smuggling, emphasizing that their vigilance plays a crucial role in protecting the nation from the dangers of illegal substances and upholding the BOC’s mission of safeguarding the country.

Following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, reiterates BOC’s commitment in combating illegal drug smuggling and emphasizes: “The BOC is determined to prevent smuggling and safeguard the nation’s borders and the well-being of its citizens from the threats posed by illegal substances attempting to infiltrate our communities.” ###