Philippine authorities seize ₱99.4 million in ketamine

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Clark and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) intercepted two shipments containing 19.89 kilograms of ketamine, valued at approximately ₱99.445 million. The seizure occurred on October 22, 2026, following intelligence from the PDEA Airport Interdiction Unit.

The first shipment, weighing 9,882 grams, originated from Switzerland and was declared as roasted coffee beans, a coffee machine, and coffee-making equipment. It was destined for Mandaluyong City. The second shipment, weighing 10,007 grams, arrived from Amsterdam and was misdeclared as sodium bicarbonate cleaning powder, bound for Montalban, Rizal. Laboratory tests confirmed the substances were ketamine.

BOC District Collector Jairus S. Reyes and Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno stated that authorities are intensifying inspections and document examinations to combat drug smuggling, particularly as parcel volumes are expected to increase through air express carriers during the holiday season.