Photo courtesy of Bureau of Customs – Ninoy Aquino International Airport/Facebook.
The Bureau of Customs at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA) intercepted more than 8 kilograms of suspected cocaine from a passenger arriving at Terminal 3 on January 29, 2026.
X-ray screening of the traveler’s checked baggage revealed suspicious images, prompting officers to conduct a full physical inspection. The search uncovered a white powdery substance later confirmed to be cocaine, with an estimated street value of around ₱43.4 million.
The passenger was placed under inquest proceedings for violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act and the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
This incident follows similar drug smuggling attempts at NAIA, where traffickers have concealed cocaine inside luggage compartments and linings to evade detection. A previous case at Terminal 3 on January 22 involved the same method of concealment.
BOC officials said the seizure demonstrates the continued vigilance of Customs personnel and the effectiveness of border control operations.
The agency added that officers remain committed to thorough inspections to prevent the airport from being used as a transit point for illegal drugs.
BOC-NAIA said it will continue strengthening inspection protocols and coordinating with other agencies in support of the government’s anti-drug campaign and public safety efforts.