‘Balikbayan’ boxes yield P102 million worth of drugs

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) found another batch of suspected marijuana and smuggled vapes with cannabis valued at P102 million hidden in several “balikbayan” boxes from Thailand on Tuesday.

A drug-sniffing dog from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) went through 200 balikbayan boxes in the shipment before focusing on five.

When inspected by agents of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service-Manila International Container Port, they discovered 82 kilograms of suspected marijuana or kush and 1,881 pieces of disposable distillate vape pens with cannabis content.

“For Filipino families, balikbayan boxes symbolize their love and longing for their loved ones. Unfortunately, it is now being used by unscrupulous individuals to smuggle in illegal drugs, vapes and many other items,” said Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio.

The BOC said the items were returned to the container van, which was sealed and padlocked for safekeeping, adding that they were scheduled for turnover to the PDEA after a complete inventory. —JANE BAUTISTA