The Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Cebu foiled an attempt to release 60 bales of used clothing or “ukay-ukay” concealed in a shipment of household goods and personal effects on Aug. 23.

The BOC flagged the shipment consigned to a Masbate province resident for further verification after an initial inspection showed suspicious x-ray images.

The shipment was examined with representatives from the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service, Enforcement and Security Service, X-Ray Inspection Project Team, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, and Chamber of Customs Brokers, Inc.–Cebu Chapter.

Based on the report, the undeclared cargo was placed at the back of a container van to avoid exposure. Legitimate goods were positioned in front to hide the contraband.

District Collector Charlito Martin Mendoza immediately issued a Warrant of Seizure and Detention against the entire shipment after finding probable cause for violation of Sections 1400, 118, and 1113 (F), (I), and (L) of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, in relation to Republic Act No. 4653.Per directive of Commissioner Yogi Filemon Ruiz, the Port of Cebu continues to intensify its anti-smuggling efforts to secure the country’s borders against the entry of prohibited goods through various modes.