The Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Cebu, through the Subport of Mactan, successfully intercepted 12 packages containing two hundred forty-seven (247) units of branded mobile phones originating from China on January 31, 2026. The seized shipment has an estimated street value of ₱1,679,617.
The shipment was initially declared as “personal effects.” However, it was flagged for physical examination after vigilant personnel from the X-ray Inspection Project (XIP) detected questionable images during a routine scan.
The subsequent physical examination—conducted in the presence of representatives from the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) and the Enforcement and Security Service (ESS)—uncovered commercial quantities of mobile phones. The contents were found to be grossly inconsistent with the original declaration.
District Collector Alexandra Yap-Lumontad promptly issued a Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) against the shipment for violations of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (RA 10863).
“This action reflects Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno’s directive to aggressively curb misdeclaration, misclassification, and undervaluation,” Collector Yap-Lumontad stated. “Our team remains steadfast in ensuring that all goods entering our borders are properly declared and taxed.”
Subport of Mactan Port Collector Gerardo A. Campo attributed the success to the seamless coordination among the various units under the guidance of the District Office.
“This case highlights how the application of new inspection protocols introduced by the District Collector has allowed us to detect irregularities at any point in the process,” Collector Campo explained. “When declarations do not match the physical evidence or documents presented, appropriate enforcement action follows immediately.”
BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno commended the Port of Cebu for its diligence, emphasizing that technology-driven enforcement is a cornerstone of the Bureau’s strategy under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
“Vigilant inspections and teamwork made this success possible. It is a firm reminder of our commitment to strengthening border protection and safeguarding government revenue,” Commissioner Nepomuceno added.
The Bureau of Customs continues to enhance its professionalization and modernization efforts to maintain public trust and uphold its mandate of national security and trade facilitation.
