BOC intercepts P750K rare agarwood at Pasay warehouse

On January 31, the Bureau of Customs intercepted an outbound cargo containing rare agarwood worth P750,000 at a warehouse in Pasay City.

Declared as dried wood chips, further testing revealed one kilogram of agarwood, which is used in luxury goods, medicine, and perfumes.

The exportation of agarwood violates the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, the Forestry Reform Code of the Philippines, and the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act.

BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio emphasized that strict enforcement measures will continue to prevent wildlife trafficking, ensuring borders are not used for illicit activities threatening biodiversity and environmental sustainability.

The seized agarwood will be handed over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for proper handling and disposition.