5 November 2010 - The Philippine Consulate General in Guangzhou reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) that another Filipina was arrested early this week by the Guangzhou Customs District's Bureau of Anti-smuggling for suspected drug-smuggling.
The said Filipina was found to be carrying 1,996 grams of heroin concealed in a foil packet hidden under her checked-in suitcase. This unfortunate incident still happened despite the successive warnings issued by the DFA and various Philippine Embassies and Consulate Generals on the plight of Filipino nationals who have been meted with the death penalty for drug-smuggling. The Filipina used to work as a school teacher in Guangdong Province and was even granted an alien employment permit by the Chinese government.Her possible involvement in such an illegal activity gives a new impression to the recruitment of potential drug mules.
The international drug syndicates seem to be recruiting young professionals or office workers with presentable personalities, and who could easily pass as tourists. In most cases, single mothers or separated housewives are most vulnerable to the drug mule offers.
At present, there are 100 cases of drug-smuggling cases within the Consulate's jurisdiction alone. About 78 of these cases involve women.
One death penalty case remains pending before the People's Supreme Court in Beijing.
The Consulate General continuously appeals to the public to be vigilant in accepting offers of travel and work abroad, or in accepting packages from people they hardly know.
In China, a person caught in possession of illegal drugs in the amount of more than 50 grams will suffer the death penalty, if convicted.
According to the Consulate, protection from falling in a distressful situation abroad is a responsibility that should be foremost in every Filipino.