People's Headline News

10/10/2024

*BOC Foils PhP250k Worth Cannabis Infused V**es Smuggling Attempt at the Port of Clark*

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Clark intercepted a shipment from the United States containing PhP250,116 worth of cannabis-infused v**es.

The shipment was declared as “Label Marker Machines,” but flagged for further inspection by the X-ray Inspection Project. A K-9 unit also detected the presence of illegal substances. Upon conducting a 100% physical examination, Customs authorities uncovered 100 pieces of cannabis-infused disposable v**es from various brands.

Samples were tested using the Customs’ Rigaku Spectrometer Reader, which confirmed the presence of cannabinoids. The samples were then turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for laboratory analysis, which verified the substances as ma*****na, classified as a dangerous drug under R.A. No. 9165, as amended.

The inspection was carried out in coordination with the PDEA, Philippine National Police—Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEG), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Pampanga District Office, Department of Justice (DOJ), and Barangay officials of Dau.

A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued against the shipment for violation of Sections 118(g), 119(d), and 1113 paragraphs f, i, and l (3 and 4) of R.A. No. 10863, known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), in relation to R.A. No. 9165.

District Collector Erastus Sandino B. Austria reaffirmed the Port’s commitment in combating illegal goods, emphasizing strengthened partnerships with other agencies in line with BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio’s support of President Marcos’ directive to fight illegal drugs.

Recognizing the need for heightened vigilance at our borders to protect citizens from the harmful effects of illegal substances, Commissioner Rubio remarked, 'Safeguarding the health of the public, particularly the youth, is one of our top priorities, as these v**e products are becoming more prevalent among them. Rest assured, we will persist in intensifying our efforts to curtail the smuggling of these contrabands and hold accountable those who violate the rule of law.”

08/10/2024

*BOC-NAIA seizes PhP111 Million worth of shabu in joint anti-drug operation*

As part of its intensified campaign against illegal drugs, the Bureau of Customs-Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA), in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG), intercepted a parcel containing Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, commonly known as "shabu," valued at PhP111,112,000 on September 26, 2024.

The shipment, which originated from Mexico and was consigned to a recipient in Bulacan, was intercepted after being flagged for inspection. Authorities discovered the illegal drugs, concealed within wax and hidden in five hand-made cultural craft paintings, with a total weight of 16.34 kilograms. This method of smuggling drugs mixed with wax marks a new modus operandi aimed at evading detection.

The confiscated drugs were immediately turned over to PDEA for further investigation, and legal proceedings are underway against those involved, for violation of Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) and Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio praised BOC-NAIA for their vigilance, stating, “I congratulate BOC-NAIA for this successful operation and their quick response to this novel technique of concealment. The BOC remains relentless in its fight against illegal drugs and shall further heighten its border control measures to adopt to the new methods of smuggling.”

Under the leadership of District Collector Atty. Yasmin O. Mapa, BOC-NAIA continues to intensify its operations against illegal drug trafficking and other customs fraud.

06/10/2024

*BOC-Port of Manila Seizes P2-M worth of Fresh Onions*

On October 3, 2024, the Bureau of Customs - Port of Manila (BOC-POM) inspected and seized a shipment of 25,000 kilograms of fresh onions valued approximately at PhP2 million. The said shipment arrived from China.

Upon verification, it was confirmed that the shipment lacked the required Sanitary and Phytosanitary Import Clearance (SPSIC) from the Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI), leading to the issuance of a Warrant of Seizure and Detention against it.

The inspection was led by BOC-POM District Collector Rizalino Jose C. Torralba, alongside officials from the Department of Agriculture - Bureau of Plant Industry (DA-BPI), including Director Glenn Panganiban, Assistant Director Ruel Gesmundo, and Plant Quarantine Chief Joan May Tolentino.

District Collector Torralba emphasized the importance of the inspection in safeguarding public health and the agricultural industry. “This recent seizure reflects our firm resolve in ensuring that products that are noncompliant with laws, rules and regulations do not infiltrate our markets,” he stated.

Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio commended the BOC-POM’s efforts to combat agricultural smuggling, stating, “By rigorously enforcing import regulations, we not only shield our citizens from unsafe agricultural products but also enhance public trust and ensure the integrity of our nation’s food supply.”

27/09/2024

*BOC-NAIA Seizes PhP1.4 Million Worth of Illegal Drugs in Five Air Parcels*

In a continued demonstration of its commitment to border protection, the Bureau of Customs-Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA), in collaboration with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG), intercepted five parcels containing illegal drugs with a total estimated street value of PhP1.4 million at the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC) in Pasay City on September 26, 2024.

A physical examination of the seized parcels revealed that four contained twenty-seven v**e cartridges with cannabis oil, while the fifth held 1,049 grams of kush (high-grade ma*****na), with a combined street value of PhP1,470,220.

All confiscated drugs have been turned over to PDEA for further investigation and possible filing of charges under Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) and Republic Act 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).

BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio emphasized the Port's proactive stance, stating, "The fight against illegal drugs is a continuous challenge, and every successful interception strengthens our resolve to protect the country from this persistent threat."

Under the leadership of District Collector Yasmin O. Mapa, BOC-NAIA remains dedicated in fortifying the country’s borders and intensifying its campaign against illegal drug trafficking.

26/09/2024

𝗕𝗢𝗖 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗮𝗻 𝗦𝗲𝗶𝘇𝗲𝘀 𝗨𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝗖𝘂𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗮 𝗞𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝘁 𝗠𝗖𝗜𝗔

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) Subport of Mactan confiscated undeclared foreign currency brought by a Korean national who arrived at Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) Terminal 2 aboard Jin Air Flight LJ31 from South Korea recently.

During the physical examination of the passenger's baggage, conducted in the presence of the passenger and witnessed by BOC's Enforcement and Security Service (ESS), Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) and X-Ray Inspection Project (XIP) personnel, the assigned Customs examiners found the same to contain undeclared foreign currency in the amount of JPY10,000,000.

In light of the said discovery, the freely importable amount of JPY1,480,000.00 or the equivalent amount of USD10,000 was released to the passenger, however, the Subport of Mactan recommended the issuance of a Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) against JPY8,520,000.00 for violations of BSP regulations on cross-border currency transfers and Section 1113 of Republic Act No. 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

Collector Gerardo A. Campo, LCB, emphasized the importance of adhering to customs regulations, stating, "The Bureau of Customs remains vigilant in its efforts to prevent the illicit movement of local and foreign currency across our borders. We urge all travelers to comply with the declaration requirements to avoid any inconvenience or legal consequences. Individuals may freely bring foreign currencies into or out of the Philippines up to a maximum amount of USD 10,000, or its equivalent. However, amounts exceeding USD 10,000 must be declared through the E-Travel system and the Foreign Currency Declaration Form (FCDF) upon arrival at, or prior to departure from, any Philippine airport."

Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, in response to this incident, remarked, “We will continue to work diligently to detect and address any violations, reinforcing our dedication and commitment in safeguarding the country's economic interests, the integrity of the international financial system, and curb possible anti-money laundering activities. The cooperation of travelers in adhering to these regulations is crucial in supporting our mission.”

Under the leadership of District Collector Romeo Allan R. Rosales and guidance Commissioner Rubio, the Subport of Mactan under Collector Campo remains steadfast in its commitment of strengthening border protection as aligned with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.

26/09/2024

*House Speaker Romualdez Inspects Rice Shipments at BOC-MICP, Strongly Urges Rice Importers to Immediately Release Cleared Rice Shipments*

House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, along with ACT-CIS Party-List Representatives, Cong. Erwin T. Tulfo and Cong. Edvic G. Yap, visited the Bureau of Customs - Manila International Container Port (BOC-MICP) on 25 September 2024 to inspect rice shipments following reports of port congestion due to delays in the releases.

During the inspection, BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio clarified that there is no port congestion, and all shipments have been cleared by Customs, addressing concerns that have circulated recently. Commissioner Rubio further emphasized that the delays are not caused by port-related issues but simply the practice of importers in maximizing the 30-day allowable period to claim their shipments upon settlement of customs duties and taxes due thereon.

Speaker Romualdez urged rice importers to expedite the release of tax-paid shipments and promptly pull out their shipments to ensure adequate rice supply and avoid potential price hikes, and refrain from illegal hoarding activities lest face the full force of the law.

In response, Commissioner Rubio assured that the BOC is fully committed in facilitating the prompt release of rice shipments, working diligently to prevent disruptions in the rice supply chain and curtail illegal hoarding activities.

The House Speaker also commended the BOC for its efforts and vigilance in monitoring rice imports.

The BOC fully supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s call to ensure a stable supply of consumer goods and maintain affordable prices for Filipino people, reinforcing the government’s commitment in safeguarding the nation’s food security.

26/09/2024

BOC-Port of Clark Busts PhP759K Worth of High-Grade “Kush”

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Clark apprehended 460 grams of High-Grade “Kush” Ma*****na worth PhP759,000 in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Philippine National Police – Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEG), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Pampanga District Office, the Department of Justice (DOJ), and Brgy. Officials of Dau, among others.

The shipment was declared as “Signed and Framed Sports Illustrated Magazine.” The BOC’s X-ray Inspection Project (XIP) flagged it for physical examination after detecting unusual images. A K-9 sniff test further indicated the presence of illegal substances. Authorities discovered one (1) piece of transparent self-sealing pouch containing dried leaves and fruiting tops suspected to be high-grade ma*****na, commonly known as “Kush.”

A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued for the shipment for violating Section 118(g), 119(d), and 1113 paragraphs f, i, and l (3 and 4) of R.A. No. 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), in relation to R.A. No. 9165.

District Collector Erastus Sandino B. Austria commended the personnel for their consistent dedication to upholding the BOC’s mandate to prevent the proliferation of illegal drugs.

As directed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio emphasized the Bureau’s steadfast dedication to protecting the country from the perils of illicit drugs, saying: “BOC vows to prevent smuggling and protect the country’s borders and our citizens’ well-being against the dangers of illegal substances that intend to pe*****te our communities.”

21/09/2024

*BOC Impounds Two Ships Involved in ‘Paihi’ of P20M Smuggled Fuel*

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) confiscated over PhP20 million worth of smuggled fuel found and two vessels in Navotas on September 18, 2024. The two fuel tankers are now under the custody of the Bureau for their alleged involvement in the illegal fuel transfer, or “paihi” modus.

Upon receiving the derogatory information, Customs Investigation and Intelligence Service - Manila International Container Port (CIIS – MICP) agents worked together with the Enforcement Group - Fuel Marking Agents and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Task Force Aduana and boarded one of the PCG’s water assets to conduct anti-smuggling operations in the areas of Navotas.

When the team arrived at the area, the BOC agents witnessed an ongoing illicit shipside fuel transfer in an attempt to evade duty and tax payments. After spotting the vessels and explaining the purpose of the Mission Order to their representatives, the team conducted fuel marking testing, which both vessels failed. The two (2) vessels yielded 370,000 liters of fuel worth PhP20,350,000.

The team secured and guarded the vessels which are now at a Pier dockyard under the protection of BOC and PCG-Task Force Aduana personnel.

"This seizure reflects our firm commitment in protecting the country’s borders from illegal activities, especially fuel smuggling, which deprives the government of rightful revenues," said BOC Commissioner Rubio. "We will continue to heighten our efforts to ensure that offenders face the full force of the law."

The BOC maintained that it would continue to be relentless in its efforts against oil smuggling in all forms, including the “paihi” modus. It is closely coordinating with the Department of Justice (DOJ) in its investigations regarding the illegal activity.

17/09/2024

| The Bureau of Customs (BOC) warmly congratulates BOC-Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA) on its 64th Founding Anniversary. As a key national port, BOC-NAIA supports domestic and international travel and cargo movement, operating four terminals and managing around 170 flights and 34,000 travelers daily. It oversees Customs Bonded Warehouses, International Cargo Facility Warehouses, Special Economic Zone, Duty-Free Shops, and its subports, including the Central Mail Exchange Center and the Manila Domestic Terminal.

In 2024, BOC-NAIA generated PHP 28.654 billion from January to August, contributing to BOC's overall improved collection performance. Additionally, it has made significant strides in border protection, with seizures totaling over PhP809.8 million as of August 31, 2024. These accomplishments are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the men and women of BOC-NAIA, under the leadership of District Collector Atty. Yasmin O. Mapa and the guidance of Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio.

06/09/2024

*BOC Collects PhP615-B for First Eight Months of 2024*

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has exceeded its revenue collection target for January to August 2024. Preliminary reports indicate that the BOC collected a total of PhP614.781 billion during this period, surpassing the target of PhP609.592 billion by 0.9%, or PhP5.189 billion. This achievement reflects a significant 5.7% increase, or PhP33.290 billion, compared to the PhP581.491 billion collected during the same period in 2023.

The significant revenue growth underscores the BOC's effective strategies in valuing goods and ensuring precise import duty assessments. Through stringent customs compliance, the BOC has effectively minimized under-declaration and misclassification, enhancing efficiency, transparency, and overall fiscal management.

In August 2024, the BOC collected PhP78.908 billion. Although this fell 2.52% short of the PhP80.945 billion target, this shortfall was largely due to recent policy changes. Executive Order (EO) 62, which reduced the rice tariff from 35% to 15%, accounted for a PhP2.353 billion revenue loss. Additionally, the reduction of the motor vehicle tariff to 0% resulted in a PhP1.034 billion deficit.

These policy adjustments were essential for broader economic and consumer benefits, reflecting a strategic shift towards more affordable essential goods. Despite these temporary setbacks, the BOC remains resolute in its mission to achieve its 2024 revenue goals. The BOC is actively addressing these challenges and working diligently to bridge the revenue gap, thereby supporting the country’s fiscal health and stability.

Under the leadership of Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, the BOC is poised to sustain its positive revenue trajectory. These accomplishments not only support the nation’s economic growth but also enhance the operational effectiveness of government functions.

05/09/2024

*BOC Foils P350K Worth Cannabis-infused V**e Smuggling Attempt at the Port of Clark*

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) intercepted a shipment from the United States containing P350,000 worth of cannabis-infused v**es at the Port of Clark.

The shipment arrived on August 26, 2024, and was declared as “Home Decor Lift Top End Table with Charging Station and Wheels, Sofa Side Table with USB Port + AC Outlets, Movable Bedside Nightstand.” However, the X-ray Inspection Project scanner flagged the item for further examination. Likewise, the K-9 unit also detected the presence of illegal substances.

On August 29, 2024, the assigned Customs Examiner conducted a 100% physical examination and uncovered 200 pieces of cannabis-infused disposable v**es from various brands.

Samples were subjected to the Customs’ Rigaku Spectrometer Reader, which indicated the presence of cannabinoids. The samples were also turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for chemical laboratory analysis, which confirmed that the substances were indeed ma*****na, a dangerous drug under Republic Act (R.A.) No. 9165, as amended.

The inspection was coordinated with the PDEA, Philippine National Police—Aviation Security Group, National Bureau of Investigation - Pampanga District Office, the Department of Justice, and barangay officials of Dau.

A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued for the shipment for violating Section 118(g), 119(d), and 1113 paragraphs f, i, and l (3 and 4) of R.A. No. 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), in relation to R.A. No. 9165.

District Collector Erastus Sandino B. Austria continues to enhance efforts against illegal goods and is actively strengthening partnerships with other agencies, fully supporting BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio’s commitment to adhere to President Marcos’ directive to combat illegal drugs.

“Our vigilant efforts at the ports are crucial in the fight against drug trafficking. We remain resolute in our mission to disrupt these illegal activities and ensure that those involved face the full force of the law." Commissioner Rubio warned.

01/09/2024

*BOC Inspects Warehouses Storing Illicit Ci******es and Infringing Goods*

Agents of the Bureau of Customs (BOC), Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service-Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP) served a Letter of Authority (LOA) in warehouses in Meycauayan, Bulacan, reportedly storing imported goods without payment of correct duties and taxes.

Pursuant to the LOA, the CIIS-MICP agents with the Enforcement and Security Service-MICP operatives, representatives from the Bureau's Action Team Against Smugglers, the Philippine Coast Guard—Task Force Aduana, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, with further support from the Bulacan Police Provincial Office and barangay officials in the area, proceeded to inspect the subject warehouses.

During the operation, they found in the subject warehouses a volume of stored imported ci******es amounting to P500 Million and P5 Billion worth of IPR-infringing items (gadgets, devices, and garments, among others) with an aggregate estimated value of PhP5.500 Billion.

Following the discovery of the subject imported goods, the agents temporarily secured the entrance and exit gates of the warehouses with padlocks and seals, while affording the warehouse owners/operators a period of fifteen (15) days from service of the LOA to submit documents to show that the subject imported goods were legitimately imported and that the correct duties and taxes due thereon were duly paid pursuant to Section 224 of Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

The BOC, under the leadership of Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, remains committed in protecting the country’s borders and upholding the law by preventing the entry and distribution of illicit and counterfeit goods.

01/09/2024

https://www.bworldonline.com/corporate/2024/09/02/617353/tmp-says-it-leads-port-of-batangas-collections/

THE BUREAU of Customs (BoC) at Port of Batangas (PoB) collected P18.7 billion in duties and taxes from Toyota Motor Philippines Corp. (TMP) in the first quarter, making TMP its largest revenue contributor, the car manufacturer said. “This substantial contribution underscores TMP’s significant ro...

29/08/2024

Outgoing District Collector of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Batangas (POB), 𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐲. 𝐌𝐚. 𝐑𝐡𝐞𝐚 𝐌. 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐨,officially handed over the 𝐁𝐎𝐂-𝐏𝐎𝐁 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 to the 𝐧𝐞𝐰𝐥𝐲 𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐭 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫, 𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐲. 𝐍𝐨𝐚𝐡 𝐌. 𝐃𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐨, 𝐌𝐍𝐒𝐀 during a turnover ceremony on August 27, 2024, in the Conference Room at BOC-POB, Sta. Clara Pier, Batangas City. The turnover ceremony was followed by a series of meetings between the new District Collector, Atty. Dimaporo, and all office heads/division chiefs.

29/08/2024

*Active Collaboration Between BOC and DA Prevents Entry of Unlawfully Imported Oranges Worth PHP 8.422 Million*

The Bureau of Customs (BOC), in close collaboration with the Department of Agriculture (DA), successfully prevented the entry of unlawfully imported agricultural products into the country.

The unlawful importation of shipment from Thailand, consisting of 3,200 cartons of fresh oranges valued at PHP 8.422 million, was prevented in Manila International Container Port (MICP) after finding that the same is not covered by the required import sanitary clearance from the Bureau of Plant Industry.

The unlawful importation of the subject oranges was halted due to the timely derogatory information shared by the Department of Agriculture (DA)’s Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI) that the shipment lacked the mandatory Sanitary and Phytosanitary Import Clearance (SPSIC).

This coordinated effort involved BOC agents from MICP, BPI officers, and members of the DA's Inspectorate and Enforcement Unit. Their prompt actions prevented the entry of subject oranges which are not only deemed unsafe for human consumption but endangers the country’s local ecology due to the absence of the required SPSIC which safeguards the nation’s border against possible entry of infested and/or contaminated agricultural products.

Representatives from Customs Intelligence and Investigation Services, the Enforcement and Security Service, the Customs Anti-Illegal Drug Task Force, the X-ray Inspection Project, and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) were present during the 100% physical examination of the subject goods. In addition, the undocumented oranges were subjected to K-9 sweeping by PDEA personnel, however no dangerous drugs were found in the shipment.

The confiscated oranges will be subjected to condemnation proceedings in accordance with DA Department Order No. 09, series of 2010, to ensure that said goods do not reach the local market. This underscores the commitment of the BOC and DA-BPI to protect the country's borders and prevent the entry of unsafe and illegally imported agricultural products.

The case records of the subject importation were also referred to the Bureau Action Team Against Smuggling for case build-up and eventual prosecution of personalities behind the halted unlawful importation of agricultural products, as may be warranted by collated evidence.

Under the leadership of District Collector Carmelita M. Talusan, the MICP continues to enhance its vigilance against illicit goods and strengthen its partnerships with other agencies. This effort is aligned with BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio's commitment to President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos' directive to combat smuggling and protect the health and safety of the public.

Meanwhile, the BOC and DA continue to enhance their efforts to secure the country's borders, ensuring that unlawfully imported and potentially harmful products will not proliferate our local markets.

28/08/2024

*BOC Launches Crackdown Operations, Uncovers Suspected Smuggled V**e Products, Motor Parts, and Accessories*

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) launched a series of crackdown operations on Friday, August 27, 2024, uncovering suspected smuggled disposable v**e products, motor parts, and accessories in facilities located in Manila and Laguna. The total estimated value of the seized goods is PhP94.075 million.

The operations were conducted by a composite team consisting of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service - Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP), Enforcement and Security Service-MICP, representatives from the Bureau's Action Team Against Smugglers, and the Philippine Coast Guard - Task Force Aduana. Barangay officials, while the Philippine National Police assisted in implementing the Letters of Authority (LOAs).

During the inspection, authorities discovered disposable v**es valued at approximately PhP12.6 million in a v**e shop in San Pedro, Laguna. On the other hand, a separate operation in Quiapo, Manila, led to the seizure of assorted imported v**e devices, v**e pods, and disposable v**es worth around PhP6.475 million, along with motorcycle parts and accessories valued at approximately PhP75 million.

The authorities have temporarily secured the entrance and exit gates of the establishments with padlocks and seals. An inventory of the imported items will be conducted by assigned Customs Examiners, with agents from CIIS, ESS, and representatives from the respective shops or warehouses present to witness the process.

Nevertheless, in the observance of the due process requirements mandated under Section 224 of Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), the respective warehouse owners/operators are afforded fifteen (15) days from service of the Letters of Authority to refute the findings and submit documents to show that the subject v**e products and motorcycle parts and accessories were legitimately imported and paid correct duties and taxes due thereon.

“These crackdowns were conducted in response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify our anti-smuggling efforts against the illicit trade of to***co and v**e products,” said BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio. “Our goal is to protect consumers and the public from the dangers of these illegal substances, which can pose significant health risks and undermine public safety.”

“The confiscation of PhP75 million worth of motorcycle parts and accessories is also noteworthy, as it demonstrates our ongoing commitment in protecting legitimate businesses in the country,” the Commissioner added.

15/08/2024

*BOC NAIA seizes Php56.5M worth of illegal drugs, arrests two passengers*

In a significant stride against illegal drug trafficking, the Bureau of Customs Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA), in collaboration with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG), successfully intercepted two passengers attempting to smuggle illegal drugs worth PhP56,557,000 during back-to-back operations at NAIA Terminal 3 in Pasay City on August 13 and 14, 2024.

On August 13, 2024, a South African passenger arriving from Abu Dhabi via Etihad Airways flight EY424 was intercepted with 5.256 kilograms of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu, valued at PhP35,802,000.

While on August 14, 2024, a Thai passenger arriving from Thailand via Thai Airways flight TG620 was apprehended with 14.825 kilograms of Kush, a high-grade ma*****na, with an estimated street value of PhP20,755,000.

Both passengers were subjected to rigorous baggage screening processes, including x-ray scanning, K9 inspection, and thorough physical examinations, which led to the discovery of the illicit substances.

The apprehended passengers and the seized illegal drugs were immediately turned over to PDEA for custodial investigation and the initiation of inquest proceedings for violations of Republic Act No. 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended, and Republic Act 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio issued a stern warning to those attempting to smuggle illegal goods into the country, stating: “The BOC will remain vigilant in protecting our borders against the smuggling of illegal goods."

Under the leadership of District Collector Yasmin O. Mapa, BOC NAIA remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguard the nation's borders.