Malachite Stones
By Samantha Yu & Ron San Pedro
MANILA — The Bureau of Customs at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) seized suspected illegal drugs last week, cleverly concealed as malachite stones, with an estimated value of PHP 114.57 million.
The shipment, which came from Congo, was flagged during routine X-ray screening on January 8 after inspection revealed irregularities. Authorities uncovered four boxes containing suspected illegal drugs weighing 4,320 grams, 3,622 grams, 4,599 grams, and 4,307 grams, totaling 16,848 grams.
The confiscated drugs and the individuals involved were turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for further investigation.
The case violates the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (Republic Act No. 9165, as amended) and the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (Republic Act No. 10863).
Bureau of Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno emphasized the importance of vigilance, stating, “This is not just about enforcement. Our goal is to protect communities. We will continue to strengthen screening, inspections, and efforts to prevent illegal drugs from entering the country.”
