P13.3-M ‘KUSH’ SEIZED FROM PASSENGER AT NAIA

OPERATIVES of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) intercepted around P13.3 million worth of suspected high-grade marijuana or “kush” from a passenger arriving at the NAIA Terminal 1 on June 4, 2026.

The Filipino passenger arrived from Thailand, and during the X-ray examination of checked-in baggage, the X-ray Inspection Project (XIP) detected suspicious images, indicative of organic substances, prompting further inspection.

A thorough physical examination of the luggage was immediately conducted. The inspection resulted in the discovery of 21 medium-sized packs, 42 small-sized packs, and two medium-sized containers containing dried leaves suspected to be “kush.”

The seized items weighed approximately 8,910 grams, with an estimated street value of P13,365,000.

Following the discovery, the BOC immediately coordinated with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), which conducted a K9 sniffing operation that yielded a positive indication for illegal drugs.

The suspected contraband was subsequently turned over to PDEA for laboratory examination, further analysis, and case build-up.

Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno commended the vigilance and professionalism of the personnel involved in the operation, underscoring the Bureau’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the country’s borders against the entry of illegal drugs.

The BOC-NAIA, under district collector attorney Yasmin Obillos-Mapa, continues to strengthen its border protection efforts through intelligence-driven operations, advanced screening technologies, and sustained coordination with partner law enforcement agencies in support of the government’s campaign against illegal drugs.