BOC seizes P1.18 billion worth of smuggled goods in Valenzuela raid

Customs officers raided a warehouse in Valenzuela City, seizing approximately PHP1.18 billion worth of smuggled goods, primarily vapes and used clothing.

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) confiscated an estimated PHP320.06 million in vape products and PHP860 million in other items, including 'ukay-ukay', fans, and electronics.

BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio emphasized the importance of border control to ensure the safety and legitimacy of vape products entering the market, noting their increasing popularity among younger Filipinos.

The seized items, originating from China, also included various other merchandise like phone chargers, Chinese food items, and office furniture.

The owners of the warehouse face charges for violating provisions of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) related to regulated importation and misdeclaration of goods.