The Bureau of Customs (BOC) at the Port of Clark, in collaboration with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency – Airport Interdiction Unit (PDEA-AIU), successfully intercepted a shipment containing Ecstasy tablets, or “party drugs,” hidden inside boxes of gummy candies. The shipment, valued at PhP7,634,700.00, originated from Brussels, Belgium, and was destined for Quezon City, Philippines.
The operation was initiated based on intelligence provided by PDEA regarding the suspicious shipment. Customs Examiners and PDEA operatives conducted a K-9 sniff test, which resulted in a positive detection of illegal substances. A subsequent physical examination of the parcel uncovered seven boxes containing gummy candies that concealed a total of 4,491 tablets suspected to be Ecstasy (MDMA).
Laboratory analysis by PDEA confirmed the substance to be Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), a controlled substance under Republic Act No. 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued against the shipment for violating various provisions of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (RA 10863) and Republic Act No. 9165.
This successful operation was carried out through robust inter-agency collaboration, with the participation of the Port of Clark – Customs Anti-Illegal Drug Task Force, the Philippine National Police – Aviation Security Group, the National Bureau of Investigation – Pampanga District Office, the Department of Justice, and local Barangay Dau officials in Mabalacat City.
District Collector Jairus S. Reyes emphasized the significance of this operation, stating, “This serves as a strong message that the Port of Clark will not be a conduit for illegal drugs. Let this be a warning to those attempting to exploit our borders for illicit trade.”
Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio reiterated the Bureau’s ongoing commitment to the national anti-drug campaign, stating, “This successful interception highlights our dedication to intelligence-driven enforcement and border protection. With the leadership of President Marcos, we remain steadfast in our fight against drug smuggling to safeguard the Filipino people’s well-being.”
