BOC seizes P29M marijuana, kush oil in balikbayan boxes from Canada

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has seized approximately ₱29 million worth of suspected marijuana and kush oil concealed within balikbayan boxes originating from Canada.

The illegal drugs were discovered during a physical examination at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) after the BOC received derogatory information.

The shipment, declared as used household goods and personal effects, was bound for General Trias, Cavite.

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio condemned the use of balikbayan boxes, a cherished Filipino tradition, for illicit activities.

The confiscated items included 20,990 grams of marijuana and one liter of suspected kush oil.

Samples of the seized items have been turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for confirmatory testing.

Individuals involved, including consignees, senders, and recipients, will face charges for prohibited importation, misdeclaration, and violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.