A joint operation by the Bureau of Customs (BOC), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Philippine Navy (PN), Philippine National Police (PNP) Maritime Group, and local PNP resulted in the seizure of an estimated 1,350 kilolitres of smuggled diesel fuel worth P54 Million from twelve compartments of the vessel “MV Veronica-1” at the Sub-port of Sual.

The inspection, conducted on May 4, was led by the Port Operations Division of the Subport of Sual together with the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) and Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) following the issuance of a Pre-Lodgement Control Order on May 3 against the subject vessel suspected to contain smuggled fuel.

Samples were taken from the twelve compartments for fuel testing which yielded “FAILED” results on both the first and second tests using a Mobile Fuel Analyzer.

The Port of San Fernando ordered the immediate seizure of the smuggled diesel and the carrying vessel in compliance with pertinent Customs laws, rules, and regulations.

“This success could not have been possible without the assistance and support of our Intelligence Group and Enforcement Group, who provided valuable inputs and guidance that led to the seizure of the vessel and smuggled fuel,” said Port of San Fernando District Collector Arsenia Ilagan.

Meanwhile, Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio commended the Port of San Fernando and the joint task force for their successful operation against smuggled fuel. “This achievement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to securing our borders and protecting our economy from the adverse effects of smuggling,” he said.

“Rest assured that the Bureau of Customs will continue to work closely with our partner agencies to strengthen our intelligence gathering and border security measures to prevent similar attempts in the future,” he added.#