CLARK FREEPORT ZONE, Pampanga (PIA) — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Clark intercepted a shipment containing over P5.1 million worth of illegal drugs declared as animal food.
Operatives from BOC Clark and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) seized 3,004 pieces of ecstasy tablets, commonly known as party drugs, concealed in four transparent pouches hidden among dog food pellets.
Said shipment originated from Paris, France, and was bound to Taguig City.
Both K-9 inspection and chemical analysis confirmed the substance as Methylenedioxymethamphetamine, a prohibited drug under Republic Act (RA) No. 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
A warrant of seizure and detention was immediately issued for violations of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, in relation to RA 9165.
District Collector Jairus Reyes cited the critical role that Customs plays not just in regulating trade but in protecting public welfare.
“Every successful drug interdiction strengthens our national defense against the drug menace. We are not just protecting our borders—we are protecting lives,” he said.
For his part, Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio reaffirmed the agency’s strong stance against the smuggling of dangerous drugs.
“Preventing illegal substances from entering our country is a vital first step in safeguarding our communities. It ensures the safety of our families and supports the broader campaign for a drug-free Philippines, as envisioned by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.,” he stressed.
The BOC also vowed to intensify its coordination with enforcement agencies and sustain its vigilance across all ports of entry to combat the illegal drug trade. (CLJD/MJSC, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)
