In a major breakthrough against drug trafficking, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) successfully intercepted a shipment containing an estimated ₱476 million worth of suspected shabu concealed in balikbayan boxes at a courier warehouse in Vitas, Tondo, Manila.

The operation, conducted on September 2, was led by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) – Port of Manila and the Customs Anti-Illegal Drugs Task Force (CAIDTF), under the Enforcement and Security Service, in close coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA).

The illegal shipment, declared as household goods and personal effects, was flagged during routine X-ray scanning. Customs examiners detected irregularities in two container vans, prompting a full physical inspection supported by K9 units. The search revealed 70 vacuum-sealed packs of white crystalline substance suspected to be methamphetamine hydrochloride, or “shabu,” weighing approximately 70 kilograms.

The contraband was hidden inside three balikbayan boxes and cleverly disguised among personal items such as backpacks and canned goods. The shipment originated from Long Beach, California, USA, and was consigned to a residential address in Bacoor City, Cavite.

BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno condemned the misuse of balikbayan boxes—symbols of sacrifice and love from overseas Filipinos—for criminal activity. He emphasized the agency’s commitment to protecting the country’s borders from illegal drugs.

“This successful interception reflects the BOC’s commitment to safeguarding the Filipino people from illegal drugs, in line with President Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen enforcement and uphold integrity in all border operations,” said Commissioner Nepomuceno, who personally inspected the seized shipment on September 3.

He added that the BOC will continue to intensify collaboration with partner agencies to prevent drug syndicates from exploiting the country’s ports and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.

Charges are being prepared against those involved for violations of Republic Act No. 9165– Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, Republic Act No. 10863 – Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.

The BOC reiterated its warning to smugglers and reaffirmed its resolve to uphold border security and public safety.