THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) in the Port of Clark seized an estimated 40 grams of high-grade marijuana or “kush,” including 10 pouches of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Cannabis-infused gummy candies concealed inside a parcel declared as “sneakers” from New York, USA.
The contraband, estimated to be more than P88,000 in value, was seized as BOC Clark continues to intensify border security measures.
The parcel underwent x-ray scanning and K9 sniffing, both of which indicated the possible presence of prohibited drugs. A physical examination was immediately conducted, revealing dried leaves and fruiting tops suspected to be kush.
Samples were then taken and turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for chemical laboratory analysis, which confirmed the presence of marijuana, a dangerous drug under R.A. No. 9165.
A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued against the subject shipment for the violation of Section 118 (g), 119 (d), and 1113 par. f, I, and l (3 and 4) of R.A. No. 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) in relation to R.A. No. 9165.
District Collector Erastus Sandino Austria praised the personnel for consistently fulfilling the BOC’s mandate to curb the spread of illegal drugs, especially during the holiday season. The Port of Clark remains steadfast in implementing measures to safeguard the country’s borders.
As directed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the BOC, through Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio, vows to remain firm in its campaign against illegal drug smuggling. “BOC pledges to prevent smuggling and protect the country’s borders and our citizens’ well-being against the dangers of illegal substances that intends to penetrate our communities.”