Authorities seized about 6,000 grams of suspected shabu worth an estimated ₱40.8 million at Ninoy Aquino International Airport and arrested a foreign passenger during a security operation.
The seizure took place Feb. 15, 2026, at the NAIA Terminal 3 international arrival area following a routine inspection that led to a focused drug interdiction effort inside the Customs Control Room.
Personnel from the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group and the Aviation Security Unit of the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group carried out the operation. A South African national was arrested in connection with the suspected illegal drugs.
Police said the confiscated substances were turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency headquarters for proper custody and further investigation. Authorities are preparing charges for violation of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the interception showed continued vigilance at the country’s main air gateways.
He said security monitoring at major entry points remains strict and that the operation demonstrated the readiness of airport security units.
Nartatez also commended the operating units for the seizure and arrest, saying law enforcement agencies will continue efforts to stop large-scale drug smuggling attempts.
He warned that anyone attempting to bring illegal drugs into the country, whether local or foreign, would be arrested and held accountable under Philippine law.
The PNP said interdiction operations will continue in coordination with partner agencies to prevent illegal drugs from entering communities and to maintain public safety and national security.
