The Bureau of Customs – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA), in coordination with airport security and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), successfully intercepted an arriving passenger from Addis Ababa carrying suspected illegal drugs at NAIA Terminal 3 on October 28, 2025.
Suspicious images were detected by the BOC’s x-ray operatives during a routine screening at the Arrival Area, in the passenger’s hand-carried baggage. Upon further inspection and field testing using a Raman Spectrometer, the contents tested positive for methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu).
Authorities confiscated approximately 6,250 grams of illegal substance, with an estimated valued of P42.5 million.
Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno commended the vigilance of the BOC-NAIA team under District Collector Atty. Yasmin Mapa and reiterated the Bureau’s commitment to the administration’s anti-smuggling and anti-drug campaign. Mapa was reappointed only last October 28.
“This operation underscores the Bureau’s firm commitment to securing our borders and protecting the nation from illegal drugs. Following the President’s directive, we will further strengthen our enforcement efforts in coordination with our partner agencies,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said.
The apprehended passenger and the seized contraband have been turned over to PDEA for further investigation and filing of appropriate charges.
Mapa assured that BOC-NAIA continues to strengthen border protection efforts in line with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s call for transparency, integrity, and decisive action against smuggling and illicit trade.
