PASAY CITY — The Bureau of Customs–Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA) has dealt a decisive blow to international drug syndicates after intercepting ₱3.72 million worth of marijuana concealed in inbound mail parcels at the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC).

The operation, carried out on January 22, led to the seizure of eight inbound parcels containing 2.48 kilograms of high-grade marijuana (kush), declared as ordinary consumer goods such as clothing, dog food, and board games. The shipments were flagged, examined, and confirmed positive for illegal drugs.

The interdiction was conducted in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen border protection and intensify the government’s anti-drug campaign.

NEPOMUCENO: CUSTOMS WILL FIND AND STOP DRUG SHIPMENTS

BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said the interception underscores the Bureau’s aggressive posture against drug smuggling and the abuse of postal channels.

“This operation sends a clear message: Customs is relentlessly monitoring inbound mail, and criminal syndicates will not succeed under this administration,” Nepomuceno said.
“If they attempt to bring illegal drugs into the country, we will find them—and we will stop them.”

The seized marijuana was immediately turned over to PDEA for proper disposition and case buildup.

MAPA: MAIL FACILITIES NO LONGER VULNERABLE

BOC-NAIA District Collector Atty. Yasmin O. Mapa emphasized that the successful interdiction reflects tightened controls and sustained inter-agency coordination.

“This operation proves that mail facilities are no longer vulnerable entry points for illegal drugs,” Mapa said.
“BOC-NAIA is enforcing a zero-tolerance policy. Smugglers should expect heightened scrutiny and decisive action.”

MULTIPLE LAWS BREACHED

Authorities said the smuggling attempt constitutes violations of Republic Act No. 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as well as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, including provisions on misdeclaration, unlawful importation, and regulated importation.

CUSTOMS STEPS UP BORDER DEFENSE

The latest seizure reinforces the Bureau of Customs’ intensified enforcement at international gateways, particularly within mail and cargo facilities, often exploited by organized drug networks.

With airport interdictions increasing, Customs officials said syndicates attempting to use postal routes face an increasingly narrow—and dangerous—path.

Customs is watching. Enforcement is tightening. And smugglers are running out of places to hide.

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