MANILA, Philippines — A Malaysian woman was apprehended by the Philippine National Police (PNP) at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 on Friday, March 20, 2026, after authorities discovered 15 kilograms of suspected “shabu” (crystal meth) in her possession.
The illegal drugs, which have an estimated street value of ₱102,163,000, were intercepted at the Arrival Lobby Custom X-ray area around 12:47 a.m.
- Suspect: A Malaysian female national (currently in police custody).
- Seized Evidence: Approximately 15,024 grams of suspected crystal meth.
- Charges: The suspect faces criminal charges for violating Republic Act No. 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
- Coordination: The operation was a joint effort between the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group and the PNP Aviation Security Group.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. lauded the airport units for their vigilance, stating that authorities are intensifying intelligence and interdiction operations at all major gateways to dismantle drug trafficking networks.
Related Drug Operations: Bicol Region Crackdown
On the same day, the PNP Bicol Regional Office reported significant arrests involving “high-value individuals,” highlighting an uncompromising stance against internal and external drug threats.
- Rogue Officer Arrested: In Baao, Camarines Sur, a police corporal assigned to the Highway Patrol Group was arrested during a search warrant operation. Authorities seized 16.8 grams of shabu (valued at ₱114,240). Bicol regional director Brig. Gen. Erosito Miranda emphasized that “no one is above the law,” confirming the officer faces both criminal and administrative complaints.
- Major Catch in Minalabac: Two other suspects from Pasig and Rizal were arrested in Minalabac, Camarines Sur, with 300 grams of shabu worth an estimated ₱2,040,000.