The Bureau of Customs (BOC), led by Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno, inspected 25 containers containing estimated PHP136.92 million worth of misdeclared, regulated, and prohibited goods at the Port of Manila, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding national borders and protecting public welfare.
The operation was conducted in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to intensify efforts against smuggling and illicit trade.
The shipments all consigned to a construction supplies trading company and primarily originating from China, were initially declared as plastic racks. However, a thorough physical examination revealed a wide range of undeclared items. These included agricultural products such as rice and sugar with an estimated value of PHP18.134 million, as well as intellectual property rights (IPR)-infringing goods valued at PHP59.343 million, with a quantity of 6,320 boxes, and several bales of used clothing, among others.
Commissioner Nepomuceno underscored the Bureau’s intensified enforcement efforts, stating, “This is exactly the kind of abuse we are determined to stop. When shipments are deliberately misdeclared, it not only deprives the government of rightful revenue—it also puts Filipino consumers and legitimate businesses at risk. We are tightening our border controls to ensure these shipments are intercepted before they can do harm.”
Among the other significant discoveries were chemicals, used clothing, electronics, pharmaceutical products, foodstuff, and various commodities. Several cosmetic items were also found to be unlabeled and unregistered.
The Bureau has initiated appropriate enforcement actions, including further investigation and the institution of seizure and forfeiture proceedings, pursuant to the relevant provisions of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), as well as applicable intellectual property and importation laws.
The BOC–Port of Manila, under the leadership of District Collector Rizalino Jose Torralba, remains steadfast in its mandate to prevent the entry of illicit goods, strengthen border protection measures, and ensure that all imports comply with existing laws and regulations.
