The Bureau of Customs (BOC) successfully seized 2.644 kilograms of high-grade marijuana, also known as “Kush,” with an estimated value of PhP3,966,000. The operation was carried out by the Port of Clark Customs Anti-Illegal Drug Task Force (CAIDTF), in partnership with the Philippine National Police—Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEG), the Department of Justice (DOJ), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and local officials from Barangay Dau, Mabalacat, Pampanga.

The shipment, initially declared as “Handcrafted Artificial Flowers Consisting of Roses, Jasmine, and Cockscomb Flowers,” raised suspicion after the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) provided derogatory information. Acting on this, customs officials conducted a 100% physical examination, uncovering four vacuum-sealed plastic pouches containing dried leaves and fruiting tops, which appeared to be marijuana.

Samples were submitted to PDEA for chemical analysis, which confirmed that the substance was indeed marijuana, classified as a dangerous drug under R.A. No. 9165, as amended. A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was subsequently issued for the shipment, citing violations of various provisions of R.A. No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, CMTA), in relation to R.A. No. 9165.

District Collector Jairus S. Reyes lauded the strong collaboration between the BOC Port of Clark and other law enforcement agencies involved in the operation. He emphasized that such partnerships play a vital role in protecting the nation’s borders and ensuring public safety.

Under the leadership of Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, the BOC continues its relentless campaign against illegal drug smuggling, working to prevent the spread of dangerous substances that threaten the safety and well-being of Filipino communities.