Photo credit: BOC

The Bureau of Customs (BOC), in coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), has successfully intercepted a private yacht transporting 1.4 tons of shabu to Nasugbu, Batangas. The illicit drugs, valued at approximately PhP9.68 billion, were discovered during a police checkpoint operation in Alitagtag, Batangas on April 15, 2024.

Following the seizure, BOC investigations revealed three additional undocumented private yachts owned by the same individual. Led by Intelligence Officer II Joel C. Pinawin of the Port of Manila (POM) Customs Investigation and Intelligence Service Field Station (CIIS), and supported by various enforcement units, including the POM Enforcement and Security Service and the Water Patrol Division, the BOC executed a Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) on June 27, 2024. This action, authorized by POM District Collector Rizalino Jose C. Torralba, was carried out under Section 1113 of Republic Act 10863.

The seized yachts, currently docked in Nasugbu, Batangas, will undergo forfeiture proceedings as per Customs Administrative Order No. 10-2020.

Deputy Commissioners Juvymax Uy and Teddy Sandy Raval led the meticulous planning and execution of the operation under the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio emphasized the BOC's commitment to securing borders and eradicating customs fraud, highlighting ongoing collaborative efforts with international and local agencies.

The success of the operation was bolstered by critical intelligence provided by the CIIS, directed by Director Verne Y. Enciso, which pinpointed the location of the illegal yachts involved in the smuggling attempt.