Manila:The Bureau of Customs (BOC) at the Port of Clark, in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), successfully intercepted two shipments containing 19.89 kilograms of ketamine. The drugs, valued at nearly PHP100 million, originated from two European countries.

According to Philippines News Agency, the seizures occurred on October 22 following a physical examination that revealed substances suspected to be illegal drugs. The first shipment, originating from Switzerland and weighing 9,882 grams, was declared to contain roasted coffee beans, a coffee machine, and coffee preparation equipment, destined for Mandaluyong City. The second shipment, from Amsterdam and weighing 10,007 grams, was labeled as sodium bicarbonate cleaning powder and was set to be sent to Montalban, Rizal.

The PDEA laboratory testing confirmed the presence of ketamine, classified as a dangerous drug under Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. District Collector Jairus Reyes highlighted the necessity for enhanced surveillance due to the anticipated rise in parcel arrivals during the holiday season, stating the intention to intensify document examination and physical inspections.

BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno reaffirmed the Bureau's commitment to enforcing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to strengthen the campaign against illegal drugs. Nepomuceno emphasized that with the expected increase in shipments, efforts to prevent illegal drugs from entering the country will be heightened.