Manila: The Bureau of Customs (BOC) intercepted approximately 800 kilograms of marijuana worth PHP1.2 billion before it could be distributed to local communities. The operation was a collaborative effort alongside the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and it successfully uncovered 80 boxes containing vacuum-sealed packs of suspected marijuana at the Manila International Container Port.

According to Philippines News Agency, the illicit shipment arrived from Thailand, falsely declared as containing rubber mats and plastic wares. During the operation, a person claiming to represent the broker was apprehended by authorities. The shipment was initially flagged for inspection by the BOC Intelligence Group's Risk Management Office and underwent a thorough physical examination.

BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno commented on the successful interdiction, attributing it to meticulous risk assessment, intelligence coordination, and the dedication of frontline personnel. The confiscated marijuana has been officially transferred to the PDEA for further action.