Demonstrating its commitment to an intelligence-driven campaign against illicit trade, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) successfully intercepted smuggled cigarettes and dried tobacco products valued at ₱39.300 million at the Sub-Port of North Harbor.
The operation, led by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) and the Enforcement and Security Service (ESS), targeted six container vans arriving from Zamboanga and Bacolod. Following a 100% physical examination, authorities discovered the illicit goods—originally declared as “dried fish” and “general merchandise”—concealed within the shipments.
The inspection revealed a significant volume of unregulated tobacco products lacking Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) tax stamps and mandatory graphic health warnings.
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Total Estimated Value: ₱39,300,000.00
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Confiscated Brands: Platinum, Lasa, King Philip, H&P Red Premium, Cannon Menthol, and Modern Brand.
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Other Items: Several hundred sacks of unmarked dried tobacco.
The BOC has issued Warrants of Seizure and Detention (WSDs) against the shipments for violating several critical laws:
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R.A. 10643: The Graphic Health Warnings Law.
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R.A. 10963: The Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law.
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R.A. 10863: The Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).
During a press briefing held today, Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno lauded the vigilance of the CIIS, ESS, and the Manila International Container Port (MICP). He emphasized that disciplined intelligence validation and rigorous inspection protocols are the Bureau’s primary tools in disrupting smuggling networks.
“Our strengthened coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) ensures that we prevent revenue leakage and protect our domestic market from unregulated, hazardous products,” Commissioner Nepomuceno stated.
This operation aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify enforcement against illicit trade to safeguard national revenue and uphold the rule of law.
