By Bernie Anabo
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Clark, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Customs Anti-Illegal Drug Task Force (CAIDTF), X-ray Inspection Project (XIP), Enforcement and Security Service (ESS), and Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), confiscated 923.9 grams of suspected high-grade marijuana resin with an estimated value of PhP61,593.
Based on a derogatory report from PDEA, a shipment declared "Vinyl Phonograph Records" was subjected to X-ray scanning, which revealed unusual images. A K-9 sniff test also indicated the presence of illegal substances—a 100% physical inspection uncovered six vacuum-sealed black pouches containing a brown, sticky substance.
Field testing indicated the presence of cannabinoids, and samples were sent to PDEA for laboratory analysis, confirming the substance as Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a component of marijuana, classified as a dangerous drug under R.A. No. 9165, as amended.
A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued for the shipment for violating Section 118(g), 119(d), and 1113 paragraphs f, i, and l (3 and 4) of R.A. No. 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), in relation to R.A. No. 9165.
The Port of Clark emphasized its commitment to preventing illegal drug smuggling and ensuring strict border security at the Port of Clark.
Customs commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio reaffirmed BOC's dedication, "We are committed to enhancing our operations through improved training and the integration of advanced technology across all ports. This fully aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s anti-smuggling directives and Finance Secretary Ralph G. Recto's mandate to safeguard public welfare."
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