BOC intercepts P43-M worth of cocaine from passenger at NAIA 3

THE Bureau of Customs – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA) thwarted another attempt to smuggle illegal drugs into the country after intercepting approximately 8.197 kilograms of suspected cocaine from an arriving passenger at NAIA Terminal 3 on 29 January 2026, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify the government’s anti-illegal drugs campaign.

X-ray screening of her checked-in baggage revealed suspicious images indicating possible concealment, prompting Customs officers to refer the luggage for a 100 percent physical examination. During inspection, a white powdery substance concealed inside the baggage was discovered and later confirmed to be cocaine, weighing approximately 8.197 kilograms with an estimated value of ₱43,444,100.00.

The passenger was subjected to inquest proceedings for violations of Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended), and Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).

This operation follows previous BOC-NAIA interdictions involving the same method of concealment, where cocaine was hidden inside baggage compartments and linings to evade detection. In a recent case at NAIA Terminal 3, on January 22, Customs officers likewise intercepted high-value cocaine concealed in luggage brought in by an arriving passenger, underscoring a recurring modus operandi used by drug traffickers targeting air ports of entry.

BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno emphasized, “This successful interception and arrest highlight the vigilance of our Customs personnel and the strength of our border control measures. The Bureau of Customs remains committed to stopping illegal drugs at our ports of entry.”

District Collector Atty. Yasmin O. Mapa likewise noted, “Our officers at NAIA remain dedicated to conducting thorough inspections to ensure that our airport is not exploited by drug traffickers.”

BOC-NAIA continues to strengthen its inspection measures and inter-agency coordination in support of the national government’s anti-drug campaign and its mandate to safeguard public safety.