In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen environmental protection and suppress illegal wildlife trade, the Bureau of Customs – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA) intercepted an outbound cargo containing rare and highly valued agarwood worth approximately PhP31,650,000. The operation was conducted on July 30, 2025, at a warehouse in Pasay City.

The shipment, which was declared as “Mahogany Wood Hand Curving Design” and “Pack of Dried Sibukaw Woodstick,” was subjected to a thorough physical examination. Inspecting officers discovered that it contained agarwood—one of the most expensive and highly sought-after woods worldwide due to its use in perfumery, traditional medicine, and luxury products.

The attempted exportation constitutes violations of several environmental and customs regulations, including the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), Presidential Decree No. 705 or the Forestry Reform Code of the Philippines, and Republic Act No. 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, which govern the trade and export of endangered species.

The operation was carried out with the assistance of the Environmental Protection Compliance Division (EPCD) under the BOC Enforcement Group. The confiscated agarwood will be turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for proper handling and disposition.

“Protecting the country’s biodiversity is a shared responsibility, and the Bureau of Customs will remain vigilant against any attempt to exploit our natural resources,” said BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno. “This interception underscores our firm commitment to strictly enforce environmental and customs laws in close coordination with our partner agencies.”

BOC-NAIA District Collector Alexandra Y. Lumontad likewise reaffirmed the port’s commitment to heightened border security against environmental crimes and the illegal wildlife trade, emphasizing the port’s critical role in protecting the country’s natural heritage. #