The Bureau of Customs (BOC) announced the seizure of P39.6 million worth of kush (dried marijuana) concealed in two balikbayan boxes at the Manila International Container Port (MICP). The shipment, arriving from Canada, was flagged by Customs Intelligence and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) after receiving a tip last week.
Upon inspection, authorities discovered 108 vacuum-sealed pouches of kush, totaling 28.3 kilograms. The boxes were falsely declared as containing used household goods, a common tactic used by traffickers to evade detection. This significant haul highlights the growing economic and social impact of drug trafficking, with authorities emphasizing the damage illicit drugs can inflict on communities. The shipment, sent by Riza Munar of Vancouver to John Paul de Leon in Rizal, was intercepted before it could reach its intended recipient.
Customs Commissioner Bien Rubio condemned the misuse of balikbayan boxes—symbols of Filipino family support—for illegal purposes. The seizure underscores the ongoing battle against drug smuggling and the economic costs associated with narcotics trafficking.
