By Diann Calucin
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) seized around 43 kilograms of suspected shabu worth ₱292.4 million hidden in a shipment declared as talc stones from Afghanistan at the Manila International Container Port (MICP).
Authorities subjected two 20‑foot containers to a 100 percent physical examination after risk profiling flagged them as high‑risk.
Inside, operatives discovered fabric pouches coated with plaster‑like material designed to resemble talc stones, concealing the illegal drugs.
Laboratory testing confirmed the presence of methamphetamine hydrochloride. Investigators noted similarities with an earlier Afghanistan‑linked shipment intercepted at the MICP on Feb. 10, 2026, which contained 40 kilograms of shabu worth ₱272 million.
BOC Commissioner Nepomuceno said the seizure underscores the effectiveness of strict profiling and monitoring of high‑risk shipments.
“Ang operasyong ito ay patunay na effective ang mahigpit na profiling at risk management ng Bureau of Customs,” he said, crediting PDEA’s role in the joint operation.
The inspection was conducted by the Customs Anti‑Illegal Drug Task Force (CAIDTF), Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIS), Enforcement and Security Service (ESS), X‑ray Inspection Project (XIP), and other units.
The BOC said the operation is part of its continuing efforts to strengthen border controls and prevent illegal drugs from entering the country.
