Authorities from the Bureau of Customs–Port of Clark, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Clark Inter-Agency Task Force Against Illegal Drugs, intercepted Php119 million worth of shabu concealed inside resin countertops at Clark International Airport.The successful operation highlights strengthened border protection and inter-agency cooperation in the government’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs. (Jason de Asis)
CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga — Authorities intercepted approximately Php119 million worth of methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) concealed inside crystal resin countertops during a joint anti-drug operation at Clark International Airport.
The successful operation was conducted by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Clark in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Clark Inter-Agency Task Force Against Illegal Drugs (CRK-IATFAID).
Authorities reported that the shipment, which originated from Las Vegas, was bound for Makati City. The parcel was flagged after PDEA provided derogatory information indicating that it could contain illegal substances.
Upon arrival, the shipment underwent X-ray scanning, which revealed suspicious images that prompted authorities to conduct further inspection. A K9 sweep by PDEA personnel yielded a positive indication for the presence of illegal drugs.
This prompted a 100 percent physical examination of the shipment, which led to the discovery of two black rectangular resin blocks concealed inside crystal resin countertops. The blocks contained white crystalline substances suspected to be shabu weighing approximately 17,500 grams.
Laboratory testing later confirmed the substance to be methamphetamine hydrochloride, a dangerous drug prohibited under Republic Act 9165.
Following the discovery, Jairus S. Reyes, District Collector of the BOC–Port of Clark, issued a Warrant of Seizure and Detention against the shipment for violations of provisions under the Republic Act 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), in relation to the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.
Reyes commended Customs officers and partner agencies for their vigilance and coordinated efforts that led to the successful interception of the illegal shipment.
“I commend our officers and partner agencies for their vigilance and swift coordination in intercepting this shipment. Their commitment and teamwork are crucial in safeguarding our borders and protecting our communities from the dangers posed by illegal drugs,” Reyes said.
Meanwhile, Ariel F. Nepomuceno, Commissioner of the Bureau of Customs, emphasized the importance of strong collaboration among law enforcement agencies in preventing illegal drugs from entering the country.
“The success of this operation underscores the value of deep-rooted coordination among our partner agencies. By strengthening collaboration and sharing intelligence, we ensure that our borders remain secure and that illegal drugs are prevented from reaching our communities,” Nepomuceno said.
Authorities said the operation forms part of the government’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs in line with the directive of Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen border protection and enhance national security. (Jason de Asis)