MANILA, Philippines — More than P21.4 million in illegal drugs were intercepted by Bureau of Customs (BoC) personnel in Pasay City, authorities said on Friday. Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno on Friday disclosed that based on the report of lawyer Yasmin O. Mapa, district collector at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), the illegal drugs were hidden inside five unclaimed inbound parcels declared as various consumer items at the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC). The parcels were, however, subjected to examination after exhibiting suspicious indicators. Physical inspection revealed that the parcels contained a total of 2,928 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride or "shabu," with an estimated value of ₱19,910,400, and 997 grams of high-grade marijuana (kush) with an estimated street value of ₱1,495,500. Nepomuceno said the seized items were officially turned over to Philippine Drugs Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for proper disposition and further investigation. The case constitutes violations of Republic Act (RA) 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended) and RA10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act). “These interceptions reflect the Bureau’s sustained efforts to detect and prevent the entry of illegal drugs through postal and courier channels. We remain resolute in protecting our borders and the welfare of the public,” added Nepomuceno.