Photo By: BOC
PASAY CITY — Authorities uncovered an estimated ₱249.83 million worth of suspected shabu concealed inside LED spotlights during an inspection led by Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno at a warehouse in Pasay City. The operation forms part of the agency’s intensified efforts to combat illegal drugs, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr..
According to the BOC, the shipment—declared as LED spotlights and originating from Mexico—was flagged after undergoing X-ray Imaging (XIP), which revealed suspicious contents inconsistent with its declaration. This prompted authorities to subject the cargo to a 100% physical examination and transfer it to a warehouse facility in Pasay City for further inspection.
On April 17, 2026, personnel from the Customs Anti-Illegal Drug Task Force (CAIDTF) and the Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) conducted a full physical examination of the shipment. A K9 unit later gave a positive indication for the presence of illegal drugs, leading to the opening of the cargo.
Photo By: BOC
Inspection revealed white crystalline substances concealed within the LED spotlights. Field testing conducted in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) confirmed the substances as Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu, with a total weight of 36,740 grams.
Commissioner Nepomuceno emphasized the agency’s continued commitment to intercepting illegal shipments. “The BOC will keep pushing forward in stopping illegal shipments at our borders. We are committed to ensuring that these dangerous drugs do not reach our communities,” he said.
He added that the successful operation highlights strengthened border controls, improved risk assessment, and close coordination among enforcement units and partner agencies.
Photo By: BOC
The seized items are now under the custody of the BOC for proper documentation and eventual turnover to PDEA. Authorities are preparing to file appropriate criminal charges against all responsible parties—including importers, consignees, and other involved individuals—for violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (Republic Act No. 9165), the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), and other applicable laws.
Meanwhile, BOC-NAIA District Collector Atty. Yasmin Obillos-Mapa described the seizure as a significant accomplishment, noting the scale of the operation and the sophisticated concealment method. She underscored the effectiveness of profiling, X-ray inspection, and coordinated enforcement efforts in detecting high-risk shipments disguised as legitimate goods.