BOC seizes P29M worth of marijuana and kush oil in balikbayan boxes from Canada

On Friday, March 7, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized P29 million worth of suspected marijuana and kush oil hidden inside two balikbayan boxes arriving from Canada.

The BOC-Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) conducted a thorough examination after receiving derogatory information, leading to the discovery of 20,990 grams of kush and one liter of kush oil in vacuum-sealed plastic pouches.

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio condemned the misuse of balikbayan boxes for smuggling illegal drugs, emphasizing that it disrespects the tradition of OFWs sending gifts home to their loved ones.

The seized items were declared as used household goods and personal effects destined for a residence in General Trias, Cavite, and will face charges under customs law and drug laws.

Samples of the suspected marijuana were turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for confirmatory testing.

CIIS Director Verne Enciso noted that the boxes underwent 100 percent physical examination, confirming the thoroughness of the BOC's inspection process.

The BOC stressed its commitment to enhancing border security and intelligence capabilities to prevent illegal substance entry, working closely with other law enforcement agencies to combat drug smuggling.