BOC seizes P15M smuggled PPE, eyes donation

On Wednesday, April 1, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized PPE worth P15 million from three shops in Sta. Cruz, Manila, suspected to have been smuggled into the country.

The BOC stated that these items were misdeclared as general merchandise and may not meet safety standards set by the government.

Store owners have 15 days to provide proof of legal importation or face smuggling charges.

On Monday, March 30, BOC spokesperson Philip Maronilla said they are finalizing plans to donate seized PPE and alcohol to hospitals.

This follows a seizure on Thursday of PHP5 million worth of overpriced PPE and alcohol in Binondo.