The Bureau of Customs (BOC) is intensifying its prosecution efforts following the seizure of the 19 forty-foot container vans by the Port of Manila containing frozen mackerel misdeclared as Frozen Fried Taro Sticks, Cuttle Fish Flavored Balls, and Taro Sweet Potato Balls, with an estimated value of PhP202,814,400.00.

Warrants of Seizure and Detention were issued against the subject shipments, and the Bureau’s Action Team Against Smugglers (BATAS) is currently conducting case profiling and build-up for potential violation of Section 1401 “Unlawful Importation” in relation to Section 1400, “Misdeclaration, Misclassification, and Undervaluation in Goods Declaration” of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.

Furthermore, pursuant to Section 20 of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, the BOC is coordinating with the Department of Finance (DOF) for the filing of criminal cases under the said law. This act classifies large-scale agricultural smuggling as a heinous crime, punishable by life imprisonment and substantial fines. The misdeclaration and illegal importation of agricultural products, such as frozen mackerel, undermine the nation’s food security and economic stability, and those responsible will be held accountable to the full extent of the law.

This enforcement effort aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to curb agricultural smuggling, which threatens food security and undermines the livelihood of local farmers and fisherfolk. The BOC remains committed to supporting the administration’s initiatives aimed at protecting the agriculture sector from illicit trade activities.

Under the leadership of Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, the BOC continues to intensify its campaign against smuggling, implementing stricter border control measures, enhanced intelligence operations, and strengthened partnerships with other government agencies for its successful prosecution.

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