BOC seizes P605M worth of smuggled cigarettes in Bulacan

On August 22, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized P605.29 million worth of smuggled cigarettes from China and Vietnam stored in a warehouse in Plaridel, Bulacan.

The BOC confiscated 8,647 master cases of cigarettes that had bypassed proper customs inspection during an operation led by Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno based on intelligence reports from Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service-Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP).

Three individuals were arrested, including the owner of the warehouse, a driver, and a helper, for their involvement in the smuggling operation; they are now undergoing inquest proceedings before the Department of Justice.

Assistant Commissioner Vincent Maronilla warned that such illicit products often end up in provincial areas where they can be sold at lower prices without excise tax.

The BOC stated that the seized cigarettes will be destroyed according to standard procedures and criminal complaints will be filed against those involved, with a warrant of seizure and detention issued under relevant laws.

Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno emphasized that these enforcement activities align with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to stop illicit cigarettes from infiltrating legitimate trade channels and protect the welfare of citizens.