BOC seizes PHP1.94B worth of counterfeit goods and smuggled tobacco in Bulacan

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized PHP1.944 billion worth of counterfeit goods and smuggled dried tobacco from two warehouses in Guiguinto, Bulacan this week.

On November 6, the BOC discovered P1.25 billion worth of contraband items such as used clothing, shoes, intellectual property rights infringing goods, branded bags, toys, electric fans, wireless speakers, steel sheets, plastic resins, housewares, and kitchenware during a three-day operation.

On November 8, another inspection uncovered dried tobacco in sacks and cigarette filter rods valued at PHP694.4 million that can produce 13,888 master cases of cigarettes.

The BOC temporarily padlocked the warehouses pending further investigation and will give warehouse owners 15 days to provide documents proving legitimate importation and payment of duties and taxes.

Failure to submit proper documentation could result in charges under various laws, including the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), Intellectual Property Code, TRAIN Law, and the newly signed Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act.