2 suspects, P17.5-M shabu seized in NAIA turned over to PDEA

Customs Commissioner Isidro Lapeña identified the suspects as Francis Melvin Feliciano, 26, and Raquel Kilario dela Cruz. (Photo: Bureau of Customs PH/Facebook)

MANILA— The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) two suspects and approximately 3.5 kg. of shabu or methamphetamine hydrochloride worth about PHP17.5 million seized at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on Wednesday.

Customs Commissioner Isidro Lapeña identified the suspects as Francis Melvin Feliciano, 26, and Raquel Kilario dela Cruz. They were arrested after claiming the package at the FedEx warehouse at the PAL/PSI building in Paranaque City, by presenting the fake ID of a certain Michael Espino Cruz last December 11.

The shipment, sent by Jason Lee of 340 E 1st, California, USA, was declared to contain toys but was found to contain a mass of white crystalline substance after customs examiners conducted 100 percent physical examination.

The parcel was consigned to Michael Espino Cruz of 121-C Kowloon St. BF Homes, Paranaque.

“The suspicious image, shown during X-ray inspection, prompted the 100 percent physical examination. The matter was referred to the Customs Anti-Illegal Drugs Task Force for initial drug test, which resulted positive for methamphetamine,” Lapeña said in a statement.