Two Filipina passengers were arrested by authorities after a failed attempt to smuggle over P56 million worth of methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu, through Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 in Pasay City, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday, May 7, 2026.
Joint Operation Leads to Seizure
The seizure occurred on May 6 through a joint operation involving the PNP, Bureau of Customs (BOC), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), and airport security units. The suspects arrived from Phnom Penh, Cambodia on an international commercial flight at 4:41 a.m.
BOC X-ray personnel flagged two suitcases in the arrival lobby X-ray area after detecting suspected illegal contents. During a physical inspection in the presence of the passengers and officials, baggage examiners discovered several foil packs containing a white crystalline substance hidden inside improvised carbon-paper pouches.
Confirmation Through K9 and Field Tests
The bags were also subjected to K9 inspection, which confirmed the presence of illegal drugs. A field test conducted at the scene also tested positive for shabu. Police reported that the operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 8,324 grams of shabu with an estimated street value of P56.6 million.
Investigators revealed that one black suitcase contained 4,506 grams of shabu mixed with coffee powder, while a gray suitcase held 3,818 grams hidden with brown powder and personal items. The recovered evidence has been turned over to PDEA for proper disposition and filing of charges.
PNP Chief Commends Border Security
PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stated that this successful operation demonstrates strengthened border security against transnational drug trafficking. “Every successful interception of illegal drugs at our ports of entry protects countless Filipino families from harm. We will continue to strengthen our border protection efforts against drug trafficking networks,” Nartatez said.
He added that the police remain vigilant against attempts to smuggle illegal drugs into the country. The PNP noted that the operation aligns with the government’s intensified campaign against illegal drugs and stronger coordination among airport and law enforcement authorities.
