The Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Clark together with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Customs Anti-Illegal Drug Task Force (CAIDTF), X-ray Inspection Project (XIP), Enforcement and Security Service (ESS), and Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), arrested the consignee of 5,888 grams of Marijuana Oil with an estimated value of P392,533.33 on June 19.

With a derogatory report from PDEA, the shipment declared as “candles” which arrived on June 16, 2024 was immediately subjected to rigorous x-ray scanning which showed unusual images. K-9 sniffing was similarly conducted which likewise indicated possible presence of illegal substance.

Physical examination led to the findings of 12 plastic containers of 5,888 grams of yellowish sticky substance. Samples were subjected to field testing which read possible presence of Cannabinoid. Thereafter, representative samples were turned over to PDEA for Chemical laboratory analysis which confirmed that said substances contain Tetrahydrocannabinol or Marijuana, a dangerous drug under R.A. No. 9165, as amended.

A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued against the subject shipment for violation of Section 118 (g), 119 (d), and 1113 par. f, I, and l (3 and 4) of R.A. No. 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) in relation to R.A. No. 9165, as amended.

A joint operation by BOC-Clark and PDEA in Mabalacat City, Pampanga, led to the arrest of a 28-year-old male claimant for violation of R.A. 9165 in relation to Section 1401 of CMTA, and is currently in custody of PDEA.

District Collector Erastus Sandino Austria emphasized the port’s dedication in stopping illegal drug smuggling, ensuring strict border security at the Port of Clark. Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio reaffirmed the BOC’s commitment to curb smuggling in all forms, highlighting enhanced training and technology in all ports, as aligned with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s anti-smuggling directives and Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto’s mandate to protect public welfare.