BOC hands over P141.89M worth of kush to PDEA

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has turned over eight abandoned pieces of luggage containing 94.59 kilos of suspected high-grade marijuana, or kush, valued at P141.89 million to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA). The BOC-Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) stated that the luggage underwent a PDEA K9 inspection at the interline baggage room of NAIA Terminal 3, which indicated the possible presence of illegal drugs. Suspicious images were detected during X-ray screening, prompting further examination and handover to the PDEA for proper handling and legal action. "We will continue strengthening our border controls and working closely with our law enforcement partners to prevent illegal drugs and other prohibited commodities from entering our communities," said BOC-NAIA district collector Maria Yasmin Obillos-Mapa. Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the BOC continues to strengthen border protection and inter-agency coordination while facilitating legitimate trade and travel. "Protecting our borders means protecting our people. We will remain vigilant and continue working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that our ports are not used as gateways for illegal drugs and other threats to our communities," he added. The incident highlights the ongoing threat of drug trafficking in the Philippines and the importance of inter-agency cooperation between bodies like the BOC and PDEA. The Philippines remains a significant transit point for drug trade in Southeast Asia, and authorities are stepping up surveillance at its borders.