The Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Clark, in its ongoing efforts to combat illegal drugs, seized 2,100 grams of high-grade marijuana, or “Kush,” valued at PhP3.150 million. This operation was conducted in cooperation with the Customs Anti-Illegal Drug Task Force (CAIDTF), 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 21, 2024, declared as a “4Seasons Camping Sleeping Bag, Weatherproof Portable with Compression Sack, Adult 82x40x3” was flagged for inspection by the BOC’s X-ray Inspection Project (XIP) after suspicious images were detected. Authorities discovered two (2) Joog bags, each containing one (1) vacuum-sealed transparent pouches, containing dried leaves and fruiting tops suspected to be high-grade marijuana, also known as “Kush.”

The smugglers attempted to hide the illegal substance by wrapping it in garments, but the BOC’s x-ray inspection and profiling expertise thwarted the attempt. A K-9 unit further confirmed the presence of illegal substances.

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

Acting District Collector Jairus Reyes issued a Warrant of Seizure and Detention against the shipment for violations of Sections 118 (g), 119 (d), and 1113 paragraphs 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.

Reyes commended the team for their precise profiling and scanning, leading to the successful interception of the illegal shipment. He reiterated the Port of Clark’s commitment to the BOC’s anti-drug efforts, in line with the directives of Commissioner Bienvenido R. Rubio.

Commissioner Rubio stressed the BOC’s resolve to prioritize community safety while fortifying border security, stating, “We remain vigilant in our fight against illegal drugs and will continue to work collaboratively with law enforcement agencies to protect our communities.” ###