In a significant drug bust, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) announced the seizure of approximately 28 kg of marijuana, valued at PHP39.6 million, at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) in Tondo, Manila. The discovery was made on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, and was detailed in a PDEA news release on February 7.
The contraband was found hidden within 30 out of 419 balikbayan boxes that were part of a container cargo shipment originating from Vancouver, Canada. The container was subjected to an X-ray examination and subsequently inspected by a Bureau of Customs official due to questionable documentation. Upon further investigation, which included a K9 unit inspection, the suspicious items were confirmed to be dried marijuana leaves, totaling 28,296 grams.
PDEA is currently investigating the shipper, receiver, and the forwarding companies involved in the shipment for potential violations of Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. According to PDEA National Capital Region chief, Director Emerson Rosales, those found guilty of importing illegal drugs into the country face life imprisonment and fines ranging from PHP500,000 to PHP10 million.