Photo By: Bureau of Customs
PASAY CITY, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs–Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA) intercepted 50 live endangered tortoises concealed inside the luggage of a Malaysian passenger arriving from Bangkok, Thailand on June 12, 2026, in a major operation against illegal wildlife trafficking.
The smuggled animals were discovered after airport customs personnel flagged the passenger’s baggage during routine x-ray screening. A subsequent 100-percent physical inspection revealed the live tortoises hidden inside the luggage.
Authorities identified the seized animals as Radiated Tortoises and Indian Star Tortoises, species protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), making their unauthorized transport and trade illegal.
Photo By: Bureau of Customs
Following the discovery, BOC personnel immediately coordinated with the Environmental Protection and Compliance Division (EPCD), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) to ensure the proper handling and disposition of the wildlife. The tortoises were documented, inventoried, and subsequently turned over to the DENR for safekeeping and appropriate care.
The Malaysian passenger is currently under BOC custody and undergoing inquest proceedings for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 9147, or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, as well as pertinent provisions of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (Republic Act No. 10863).
Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno lauded the swift and coordinated efforts of the Port of NAIA, the Enforcement and Security Service (ESS), the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), the EPCD, and partner agencies in thwarting the smuggling attempt.
“Hindi natin hahayaang maging daanan ang ating mga paliparan para sa illegal wildlife trade. Patuloy nating paiigtingin ang pagbabantay sa ating borders, katuwang ang ibang ahensya, upang maprotektahan ang ating kalikasan at mapanagot ang mga lumalabag sa batas,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said.
The operation underscores the Bureau’s continuing commitment to combating wildlife trafficking and strengthening border security against environmental crimes.
Under the leadership of District Collector Yasmin Mapa, BOC-NAIA remains steadfast in enforcing customs and environmental laws while supporting the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to safeguard the country’s borders and protect its natural resources from transnational criminal activities.