Authorities have confiscated a shipment containing 278 live wild spiders at the General Santos International Airport on Tuesday, September 16, 2025.

Personnel of the PNP Aviation Security Group (PNP AVSEGROUP) intercepted a suspicious cargo, which was confirmed later to contain six boxes of live wild spiders.

PNP AVSEGROUP said the operation was carried out when an AVSEC screener raised the alarm about the items packed unusually.

“This critical discovery prevented the illicit transport of these creatures, which were destined for various locations across the country,” PNP AVSEGROUP said.

The spiders were then seized in accordance with the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (RA 9147).

PNP AVSEGROUP added that the shipment was set to be transported by the shipper from General Santos City to various courier hubs in Tarlac City, Tarlac; Ibaan and Lipa City, Batangas; Valenzuela City; and Carmona City, Cavite.

The spiders confiscated are now under the custody of CENRO-DENR 12.

“This incident reaffirms the PNP AVSEGROUP’s sustained vigilance against wildlife trafficking. Having intercepted similar cases before, we remain committed to intensifying our efforts and working closely with partner agencies to keep our airports free from illegal wildlife trade,” PNP AVSEGROUP Director, Brigadier General Jay Cumigad, said.