A 20-inch-long live reticulated Python concealed inside a Bluetooth speaker was recently intercepted by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in Pasay City.
The reticulated Python, supposed to be sent to Malaysia by a sender from Quiapo, Manila, was discovered by BOC-Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) during a routine x-ray inspection at the DHL warehouse in Pasay.
BOC, in a statement, reminds the public that the import, export, and trade of wildlife animals without the necessary permit is a violation of Republic Act (RA) No. 9147 or Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, and in relation to R.A. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
Violators face imprisonment of one year and one day to two years and a fine of P2,000 to P200,000.
The Python has already been turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for proper handling and care.
BOC noted that NAIA has been active in protecting the borders against illegal wildlife trade and stopping the entry and exit of contraband.
Traffic South East Asia, an international nongovernment organization working exclusively on wildlife trade, recently commended BOC-NAIA for intercepting 1,529 exotic turtles and tortoises from Hong Kong last March 3, and 757 live venomous tarantulas from Poland last April 1.
