MANILA – Customs authorities intercepted illegal drugs worth more than PHP105 million in separate operations at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) and Clark, Pampanga.

In a statement Wednesday, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) said a Malaysian passenger was flagged at NAIA Terminal 1 on March 20 after suspicious images appeared during x-ray screening of her baggage.

A physical inspection uncovered over 15 kilograms of shabu hidden in two boxes declared as chopping boards, with an estimated value of PHP102.16 million. The passenger was immediately apprehended and turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for inquest proceedings. Charges will be filed for violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 and the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

In a separate incident, BOC-Port of Clark blocked a shipment of shabu valued at PHP3.53 million. Authorities found the drugs concealed inside a motor filter within a parcel from Zambia destined for Cavite. Initial screening and subsequent laboratory testing confirmed the white crystalline substance as shabu.

A warrant of seizure and detention was issued by District Collector Jairus Reyes against the Clark shipment for violations of multiple provisions of the CMTA and the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.

“These operations demonstrate our commitment to preventing the entry of illegal drugs into the country and ensuring public safety,” the BOC said.