A 62-year-old passenger arriving from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, was arrested after authorities intercepted more than ₱21.2 million worth of suspected shabu during baggage screening at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1.
The arrest took place on April 3, 2026, at the Customs Arrival Area of NAIA Terminal 1 during routine screening procedures conducted on passenger luggage.
Police Brig. Gen. Dionisio B. Bartolome Jr., director of the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group, said authorities detected irregularities during the inspection of two pieces of baggage belonging to the suspect.
Upon further examination, several packages of suspected shabu were discovered concealed inside a backpack and multiple handbags found within the luggage.
Authorities utilized K9 units to assist in confirming the presence of illegal drugs during the operation.
Recovered from the suspect were approximately 3,120 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated value of more than ₱21,216,000.
Bartolome said the interception of illegal drugs reflects the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to prevent the entry of prohibited substances into the country.
“Every attempt to smuggle drugs is an attack on the safety and peace of our communities. By intercepting this shipment, we are safeguarding countless Filipino families,” Bartolome said in a statement.
He added that the Aviation Security Group, together with NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group and partner agencies, will continue to remain vigilant against drug trafficking activities.
Authorities continue to monitor airport operations and conduct routine screenings as part of security measures aimed at intercepting illegal substances and maintaining public safety.
