BOC seizes PHP2B in luxury vehicles, signals shift in anti-smuggling strategy

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized luxury vehicles worth approximately PHP2 billion, including a batch worth P366 million from a warehouse in Makati City on Friday, February 14.

On February 13, the BOC-Intelligence and Investigation Service confiscated high-end cars such as Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Maybachs, Maseratis, Rolls-Royces, Mercedes-Benzes, Range Rovers, Bentleys, Alphards, and Jeep Wranglers in Pasay City and Parañaque City.

On February 14, the BOC seized an additional 17 luxury cars worth P366 million from a warehouse in Makati City, including models such as Ferrari 488 Spider, Porsche Targa, Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG, BMW M4, Lexus LC500.

Customs Commissioner Bien Rubio highlighted the BOC's aggressive approach to detect illegal activities even after goods leave ports, signaling a shift in operational strategies. During both inspections, several foreign nationals were found without proper documentation or understanding of local languages.

The CIIS team secured the premises and served letters of authority and mission orders to company representatives, requiring them to submit proof of taxes within 15 days; failure to provide proper payment documentation will result in charges under Sections 1400, 1401, and 1113 of Republic Act 10863.

Commissioner Rubio emphasized that the BOC will not hesitate to investigate its own personnel if they are involved in smuggling activities.