SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Subic has seized an additional 123.91 kilograms of high-end kush worth an estimated P204.44 million during a continuing inspection of a yacht previously subjected to an anti-drug operation.
The latest seizure involved 109 packages of suspected high-end kush discovered during a thorough stripping and inspection of the vessel by a composite team from the BOC, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Department of Justice (DOJ), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine National Police (PNP), and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Law Enforcement Department (SBMA-LED).
With the latest discovery, authorities have recovered a total of 198 packages of high-end kush, with a combined estimated street value of P366.65 million.
BOC Port of Subic District Collector Atty. Geniefelle P. Lagmay said the latest discovery highlighted the importance of conducting sustained inspections even after an initial seizure.
“This additional discovery shows that our work does not stop with the initial apprehension. We will continue to thoroughly examine and strip vessels when necessary to ensure that every possible hiding place is checked,” Lagmay said.
He added that the Port of Subic, together with its law enforcement partners, would remain vigilant in preventing illegal drugs from entering the country.
BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said the operation supports the administration’s directive to strengthen border security and intensify efforts against illegal drugs.
“This operation demonstrates that our enforcement efforts do not end with the initial seizure. Patuloy kaming makikipagtulungan nang malapit sa ating mga kasamahan sa pagpapatupad ng batas at magsasagawa ng mga masusing inspeksyon upang matiyak na walang mga iligal na droga ang makakarating sa ating mga komunidad,” Nepomuceno said.
The confiscated items were subsequently turned over to the PDEA for proper custody and disposition in accordance with existing procedures.
The BOC and its partner agencies are continuing their investigation and other enforcement measures in connection with the seizure.