The Bureau of Customs (BOC) turned over October 10 some P3.028 million worth of illegal drugs seized at the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC) to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for proper disposal.
Five parcels of marijuana and one parcel of ecstasy pills were intercepted by customs agents at CMEC after x-ray machines showed image irregularities.
The parcels had been declared as food additives, apparel, handbags, or school supplies. The seized marijuana weighed a total of 10,091.9 grams.
Indicated consignees of the parcels are Mark Dinglasan of 435 F. Ortigas St., Hagdang Bato Townhomes, Brgy. Hagdang Bato Itaas, Mandaluyong City; Joel Shila of 52 Panorama St., SSS Village, Marikina City; Vicky Alvarez of 14 Sto. Nino St., Marikina City; Kim Equipado of Blk 7 Lot 6 Rivotorio St., Brgy. Maharlika, San Juan; James Garcia; and Divino Peleo.
“Some of the parcels which arrived at CMEC are from USA,” Customs Commissioner Isidro Lapeña said in a statement.
After the x-ray examination, customs examiners conduct a physical examination of the parcels in the presence of the Customs Anti-Illegal Drugs Taskforce to confirm if they held illegal substances, Lapena said.
“The subsequent tests conducted by PDEA revealed positive reactions to drugs, that’s why the packages were seized,” the customs chief said.
Charges will be filed against the consignees for violating the provisions of Republic Act (RA) No. 10863, otherwise known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act and RA 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drug Act of 2002.
Under RA 9165, marijuana is classified as a dangerous drug. Section 119 (d) of CMTA states that marijuana and other habit-forming drugs are classified as prohibited imports.
