BOC seizes smuggled fuel worth P90M at Batangas port

On Wednesday, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized a fuel tanker and four trucks at the Port of Batangas carrying approximately 1.8 million liters of smuggled fuel, valued at P90 million.

The BOC-Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service received a tip that led to a joint operation with the Enforcement and Security Service, catching the vessel transferring petroleum products into four lorry tankers.

Fuel samples failed SGS marking tests, indicating non-payment of duties and taxes, and the ship's captain could not provide legal documentation for berthing and discharge.

The BOC Intelligence and Investigation Service had been monitoring these activities for months before taking action, leading to the seizure of M/KTR Cassandra, valued at P300 million, and the trucks, each valued at P3 million.

District Collector Noah Dimaporo issued a warrant of seizure and detention on the fuel, vessel, and lorries, emphasizing that illegal fuel transfer undermines tax collection efforts and fair competition in the industry.

The owners, ship captain, crew, fuel, and trucks will face charges under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act and the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law.