Customs intercepts PHP 5.5M worth of Shabu hidden in toys

DAVAO CITY – The Bureau of Customs (BOC), through the Port of Clark, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), successfully intercepted 816 grams of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride (Shabu), with an estimated street value of PHP 5,548,800. The shipment originated from Los Angeles, California, and was bound for Cagayan de Oro City.

The operation was launched after PDEA provided derogatory information about the shipment, prompting customs authorities to examine 10 pieces of toys, including one (1) surprise egg toy and nine (9) kinetic sand toys. Upon inspection, officials found vacuum-sealed pouches containing a white crystalline substance hidden inside each toy, suspected to be illegal narcotics.

Samples of the confiscated substance were turned over to PDEA for chemical analysis, which later confirmed that the white crystalline substance was Methamphetamine Hydrochloride (Shabu). The drug is classified as a dangerous substance under Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002).

Port of Clark District Collector Jairus S. Reyes highlighted the critical role of inter-agency cooperation in preventing the entry of illegal drugs and contraband into the country.

“This operation underscores the importance of strong partnerships among law enforcement agencies to enhance national security and prevent the smuggling of illegal drugs,” Reyes said.

The Port of Clark Customs Anti-Illegal Drug Task Force conducted the successful interception in collaboration with the Philippine National Police, Aviation Security Group, National Bureau of Investigation, Pampanga District Office, and Department of Justice. Local officials from Brgy. Dau, Mabalacat City

A Warrant of Seizure and Detention will be issued against the shipment for violations of Section 118(g), Section 119(d), and Section 1113 paragraphs (f), (i), and (l) of Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act – CMTA), in relation to R.A. No. 9165.