Photo by: Bureau of Customs
CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga — The Bureau of Customs (BOC)–Port of Clark, in coordination with the Clark Inter-Agency Task Force Against Illegal Drugs (CRK-IATFAID), successfully intercepted three separate shipments containing suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu” with a combined estimated street value of more than ₱64.9 million.
The operations form part of the intensified anti-illegal drug campaign being implemented under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen border security and prevent the entry of dangerous drugs into the country.
Authorities discovered the illegal substances concealed in three international shipments originating from different countries and falsely declared as legitimate goods.
The first shipment, which arrived from India on May 25, 2026 and was destined for Camarines Sur, was declared as “Industrial Pistons.” During examination on May 26, Customs personnel uncovered approximately 6,800 grams of suspected shabu valued at around ₱4.2 million hidden inside the pistons.
Photo by: Bureau of Customs
A second parcel from Liberia, bound for Cavite and declared as “Car Parts,” arrived on May 20, 2026. Upon inspection on May 25, authorities found approximately 432 grams of suspected shabu worth ₱2.9 million concealed inside wheel hubs.
Meanwhile, a third shipment from Africa, intended for delivery in Angeles City and declared as “Green Square Plastic Resin,” arrived on May 22, 2026. Examination conducted on May 25 led to the discovery of approximately 8,500 grams of suspected shabu valued at ₱57.8 million hidden within resin materials.
Initial testing using a Rigaku Spectrometer yielded positive results for Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, a dangerous drug prohibited under Republic Act No. 9165, as amended. Samples from the seized substances were subsequently turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for confirmatory laboratory examination.
Photo by: Bureau of Customs
Following the discoveries, the Port of Clark issued Warrants of Seizure and Detention (WSD) against the shipments for violations of Sections 118(g), 119(d), and 1113 paragraphs (f), (i), and (l)(3) and (4) of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), in relation to Republic Act No. 9165.
Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno underscored the importance of maintaining strict monitoring at airport ports, noting that air cargo and express parcels remain among the most frequently exploited channels for smuggling attempts.
“Our airports remain among the most vulnerable entry points for illegal drugs and other prohibited goods. That is why I commend the Port of Clark, together with other airports under the Bureau’s jurisdiction, for their vigilance, professionalism, and sustained efforts in detecting and intercepting these shipments before they reach our communities,” Nepomuceno said.
District Collector Jairus S. Reyes likewise lauded Customs personnel and partner agencies for their unwavering commitment to combating drug smuggling.
“Drug smuggling schemes continue to evolve, but our frontline personnel remain equally adaptive and vigilant. Through strengthened coordination, sharper profiling, and relentless monitoring, the Port of Clark remains committed to stopping these dangerous substances before they reach our communities,” Reyes said.
The successful interdiction highlights the Bureau of Customs’ continuing commitment to securing the country’s borders and preventing the entry of illegal narcotics that threaten public safety and national security.