SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Subic has seized an additional 123.91 kilograms of high-end kush valued at an estimated P204.44 million from a yacht undergoing continued inspection, bringing the total drugs recovered from the vessel to about P366.65 million.

The latest seizure involved 109 packages discovered during a continuing stripping and inspection operation on the same vessel previously subjected to enforcement action.

A composite team from the BOC, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Department of Justice, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Law Enforcement Department conducted the inspection that led to the discovery of the additional packages concealed aboard the vessel.

With the latest seizure, authorities have recovered a total of 198 packages of high-end kush from the yacht, according to the BOC.

District Collector Atty. Geniefelle P. Lagmay said the discovery demonstrated the importance of conducting thorough inspections even after an initial seizure.

“This additional discovery shows that our work does not stop with the initial apprehension,” Lagmay said. She added that the Port of Subic would continue to thoroughly inspect and strip vessels when necessary to check possible hiding places.

BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said the operation supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen border security and intensify efforts against illegal drugs and other threats to public safety.

“Patuloy kaming makikipagtulungan nang malapit sa ating mga kasamahan sa pagpapatupad ng batas at magsasagawa ng mga masusing inspeksyon upang matiyak na walang mga iligal na droga ang makakarating sa ating mga komunidad,” Nepomuceno said.

The seized items were turned over to the PDEA for proper custody and disposition in accordance with existing procedures.

The BOC and its partner agencies will continue enforcement and investigative operations related to the seizure. (Ang Pahayagan Reportorial Team)