The Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Clark, through its intensified border security measures, seized 40 grams of high-grade Marijuana or Kush and 10 pouches of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Cannabis-Infused Gummy Candies with an estimated value of more than P88,000 concealed inside a parcel declared as “sneakers” from New York, USA.

The parcel underwent x-ray scanning and K9 sniffing, both of which indicated the possible presence of prohibited drugs. A physical examination was immediately conducted, revealing dried leaves and fruiting tops suspected to be High-Grade Marijuana or Kush.

Samples were then taken and turned over to the PDEA for chemical laboratory analysis, confirming the presence of Marijuana, a dangerous drug under R.A. No. 9165.

A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued against the subject shipment for the 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.

District Collector Erastus Sandino B. Austria praised the personnel for consistently fulfilling the BOC’s mandate to curb the spread of illegal drugs, especially during the holiday season. The Port of Clark remains steadfast in implementing measures to safeguard the country’s borders.

As directed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the BOC guided by Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, vows to remain firm in its campaign against illegal drug smuggling and emphasized: “BOC pledges to prevent smuggling and protect the country’s borders and our citizens’ well-being against the dangers of illegal substances that intends to penetrate our communities.”