Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno together with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Atty. Melvin A. Matibag, led the inspection of ₱35.4 million worth of imported agricultural products seized from a cold storage facility in Nueva Ecija. The operation forms part of the Bureau’s continuing efforts to uphold customs laws, ensure accountability in the movement of imported goods, and support the government’s food security objectives.
The operation stemmed from information provided by the NBI regarding alleged agricultural smuggling and possible violations of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act and the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA). Acting on the report, the Bureau of Customs–Intelligence Group (BOC-IG) and the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service–Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP), in coordination with the NBI and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), conducted enforcement operations at the subject facility.
Authorities discovered various imported agricultural products, including 6,088 bags of small yellow onions from Holland, 1,080 bags of big yellow onions from China, 3,780 bags of big red onions from China, and 12,350 bags of garlic from China. The seized goods have a total estimated value of ₱35,437,198.00.
A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued on 21 May 2026 for violation of Section 224 of the CMTA. The operation supports the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen food security, safeguard the agriculture sector, and ensure strict compliance with customs and trade regulations.
Furthermore, the NBI is conducting an investigation against the importer and other liable parties for possible violations of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act. The BOC is also carrying out an internal investigation to determine whether any personnel may have been involved in the unlawful importation and movement of the seized goods.
Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno emphasized the Bureau’s commitment to protecting both the country’s borders and agricultural sector.
“Hindi natin hahayaan na kumita ang mga smuggler habang nalulugi ang ating mga magsasaka at nalalagay sa alanganin ang food security ng bansa. This operation sends a clear message that the Bureau of Customs, together with our partner agencies, will continue to pursue those who undermine legitimate trade and exploit our agricultural industry,” Commissioner Nepomuceno said.
The BOC-MICP, under the leadership of District Collector Atty. Felipe Geoffrey K. De Vera IV, reaffirmed its commitment to proactive border protection, fair trade, and accountability in all customs enforcement operations.
