MANILA — The Bureau of Customs–Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA) intercepted more than ₱43.4 million worth of cocaine from an arriving passenger at NAIA Terminal 3 on January 22, reinforcing the government’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs.

Customs officers discovered approximately 8.194 kilograms of suspected cocaine concealed inside the passenger’s checked-in baggage after suspicious images were detected during x-ray screening. The luggage was immediately subjected to a 100 percent physical examination, which led to the seizure of the white crystalline substance.

Field testing conducted in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG) yielded positive results for cocaine. The seized drugs were turned over to PDEA for confirmatory laboratory examination, proper disposition, and further investigation.

The passenger is facing charges for violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as well as Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.

Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno underscored the significance of vigilance at the country’s major gateways, noting that the successful interception reflects the effectiveness of coordinated enforcement efforts.

“This interception highlights the critical role of alert inspection and strong inter-agency coordination in preventing illegal drugs from entering the country,” Nepomuceno said. “The Bureau remains steadfast in protecting our borders and our communities.”

Meanwhile, BOC-NAIA District Collector Atty. Yasmin O. Mapa emphasized the dedication of frontline personnel tasked with airport security.

“This operation reflects the commitment of our frontliners to conduct thorough examinations and ensure that our airports are not exploited by drug traffickers,” Mapa said.

The BOC-NAIA said it will continue to strengthen inspection protocols and intelligence-driven operations in support of the national government’s anti-drug campaign and its mandate to safeguard public safety

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