MANILA – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) intercepted a shipment containing over P749 million worth of illegal drugs at the Manila International Container Port (MICP).

BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno led the inspection of a 1×40-foot consolidated container declared as balikbayan boxes, which was flagged based on credible intelligence. A 100% physical examination of the shipment revealed 110.24 kilograms of methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu hidden inside four boxes.

The seized drugs, estimated to be worth ₱749.63 million, were immediately sampled and submitted to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for confirmatory testing. Laboratory results verified the substance as methamphetamine hydrochloride.

The contraband will be turned over to the PDEA for further investigation, in connection with violations of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has repeatedly emphasized the importance of securing the country’s borders against the entry of illegal drugs. The operation supports the administration’s goal of ensuring a safer and drug-free Philippines.

MICP District Collector Rizalino Jose C. Torralba lauded the vigilance and coordination among enforcement teams, stating that the success of the operation highlights the BOC’s enhanced profiling efforts and strong inter-agency collaboration.

“We will not allow criminal elements to exploit balikbayan privileges and tarnish the trust of our overseas Filipinos. This seizure underscores our commitment to protecting the country and its people,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said.