Manila:The Bureau of Customs (BOC)-Port of Clark, in partnership with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), has successfully intercepted two shipments containing a total of 19.89 kilograms of ketamine. The seized drugs, originating from two European countries, are valued at nearly PHP100 million.

According to Philippines News Agency, the two shipments were confiscated on October 22 following a physical examination that revealed substances suspected to be illegal drugs. The first shipment, which came from Switzerland and weighed 9,882 grams, was falsely declared as containing roasted coffee beans, a coffee machine, and coffee preparation equipment, and was intended for Mandaluyong City. The second shipment, originating from Amsterdam with a weight of 10,007 grams, was misdeclared as sodium bicarbonate cleaning powder and was destined for Montalban, Rizal.

Testing by the PDEA laboratory confirmed that the substances in both shipments tested positive for ketamine, a drug regulated under Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended.

District Collector Jairus Reyes highlighted the necessity for increased surveillance with the anticipated rise in parcel arrivals during the holiday season. He stated, "We expect an increase in parcels arriving via air express carriers. Therefore, we will intensify the examination of documents and physical inspections, as well as ensuring that our X-ray machines are in good working order."

BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno reiterated the Bureau's commitment to enforcing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to bolster the campaign against illegal drugs. He assured that with the expected increase in shipments this holiday season, efforts to strengthen inspections and operations will be intensified to prevent illegal drugs from entering the country.