The Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Clark has intercepted approximately 15,732 grams of shabu valued at P64.9 million in three separate shipments originating from Africa, Liberia, and India. The seizures were announced on June 8, 2026, highlighting the bureau's ongoing efforts to combat drug smuggling.
Details of the Seized Shipments
According to authorities, the first shipment arrived on May 20 from Liberia and was declared as car parts. It contained about 432 grams of illegal substance and was bound for Cavite. The second parcel, arriving on May 22 from Africa, held approximately 8,500 grams of shabu concealed inside resin materials. This shipment was destined for Angeles City. The third and final shipment came from India, declared as industrial pistons, and yielded around 6,800 grams of contraband. It was bound for Camarines Sur.
Testing and Confirmation
Operatives from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) conducted an initial test using a Rigaku Spectrometer, which produced positive indications for narcotics. Samples were then submitted to PDEA for chemical analysis, confirming the substance as shabu, classified as a dangerous drug 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 parcels for violations of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act in relation to RA 9165.
Official Statements
The BOC emphasized that these operations are part of the bureau’s continuing vigilance against drug smuggling and its commitment to securing the country’s borders from illegal narcotics, aligning with the intensified anti-drug campaign of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Port of Clark District Collector Jairus S. Reyes commended the sustained vigilance and operational readiness of Customs personnel and partner agencies. “Drug smuggling schemes continue to evolve, but our frontline personnel remain equally adaptive and vigilant. Through strengthened coordination, sharper profiling, and relentless monitoring, the Port of Clark remains committed to stopping these dangerous substances before they reach our communities,” he said.
Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno highlighted the critical role of airports in preventing the entry of illegal drugs and other contraband. “Our airports remain among the most vulnerable entry points for illegal drugs and other prohibited goods. That is why I commend the Port of Clark, together with other airports under the Bureau’s jurisdiction, for their vigilance, professionalism, and sustained efforts in detecting and intercepting these shipments before they reach our communities,” he stated.
