In an operation on January 6, 2025, the Bureau of Customs-Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA), in close coordination with the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (IADITG), intercepted approximately 10,706 grams of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu.

The illegal drugs valued approximately at Php72,800,800, were discovered in an abandoned inbound luggage. The items were traced back to a passenger who had traveled from South Africa, with a stopover in Doha, Qatar, before reaching Manila.

Hidden within the luggage were improvised pouches made of packaging tape wrapped in black carbon paper, strategically concealed in five (5) handbags, four (4) file organizer bags, and one (1) portfolio bag.

The interdiction operation involved other agencies, including the BOC-Customs Anti-Illegal Drugs Task Force, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEG), the Airport Police Department, the PNP Drug Enforcement Group, and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

The seized illicit drugs were immediately turned over to PDEA for proper handling, and further investigation is underway for violations of Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) and Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).

BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio praised the operation’s success, reaffirming the agency’s strong resolve to combat illegal drugs and safeguard the nation’s borders. “Our efforts reflect the BOC’s determination to take decisive action against illegal drug smuggling and ensure the safety of our communities,” he stated.

District Collector Yasmin O. Mapa highlighted the BOC-NAIA’s dedication, adding that this operation serves as a stern warning to drug traffickers, signaling the BOC-NAIA’s firm stance against illicit drug smuggling.