The Bureau of Customs (BOC) at the Port of Clark intercepted an international drug smuggling attempt involving over ₱7.56 million worth of shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride) concealed inside household appliances.

The illegal shipment, which arrived on May 6, 2025, from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and was bound for Bacoor, Cavite, was flagged for further inspection after irregularities were detected through the BOC’s X-ray Inspection Project (XIP). Customs agents discovered assorted undergarments, tea bags, a vacuum cleaner, and a rice cooker inside the parcel.

Upon physical examination, authorities found 14 tape-sealed plastic packets containing white crystalline substances hidden inside the vacuum cleaner, weighing 538 grams and valued at ₱3.65 million. Another 12 packets weighing 574 grams and worth ₱3.9 million were concealed inside the rice cooker.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) confirmed that the contents tested positive for methamphetamine hydrochloride, a dangerous drug under Republic Act No. 9165.

The operation was carried out in coordination with the PDEA Airport Interdiction Unit, underscoring the Marcos administration’s whole-of-government approach to combating transnational crime and illegal drug trafficking.

District Collector Jairus S. Reyes praised the vigilance of customs personnel and partner agencies, saying, “This interdiction sends a strong message to those who attempt to smuggle illegal drugs through our ports.”

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio emphasized that the agency’s duty goes beyond trade regulation. “Customs plays a key role in protecting the Filipino people from the threats of illegal drugs. Border security is ultimately about saving lives,” he said.