BOC urges owners to pay PHP2.8B for seized luxury cars, avoids seizure

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) is urging owners or claimants to settle duties and taxes voluntarily for seized luxury cars worth PHP2.8 billion instead of facing a warrant of seizure and detention.

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio stated that voluntary payment can avoid the complex process of seizure proceedings while holding imported goods, as per Section 224 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

Owners or claimants have 15 days after receiving Letters of Authority (LOAs) to provide proof of correct duty and tax payments along with local purchase documents to reclaim seized vehicles.

Seized luxury car brands include Ferrari, Porsche, and McLaren from warehouses in Makati, Taguig, Parañaque, and Pasay during raids from February 13 to 19.

BOC Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence Group Juvymax Uy highlighted that voluntary payment increases tax collections while protecting innocent parties involved.

Registered owners of imported vehicles who can prove they are bonafide purchasers must settle the customs duties and taxes within the 15-day period.