The Bureau of Customs (BOC)-Port of Cebu seized 300 cylinders of Refrigerant Gas containing Trifluoromethane, an identified alternative to ozone-depleting substances last 11 May 2022.

Upon the shipment’s arrival from China, officers from the Environmental Protection and Compliance Division (EPCD)-Cebu requested a Pre-lodgment Control Order based on a derogatory information that the importation is not covered with the necessary clearance from the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB).

A joint 100% physical examination was immediately conducted by Customs Examiner, Ronor N. Alinsug, and the representatives from the EPCD, Enforcement and Security Service, Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service, X-Ray Inspection Project Team, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, and EMB.

Under DENR-EMB Memorandum Circular No. 2005-03, importation of alternatives to ozone-depleting substances such as Trifluoromethane must be covered with Pre-shipment Importation Clearance prior to its entry into the Philippine territory.

Due to the lack of prior importation clearance, District Collector Charlito Martin R. Mendoza immediately issued a Warrant of Seizure and Detention against the shipment based on Section 117 in relation to Section 1113 (F) and (L-5) of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act. The seized goods are now under the custody of the port and shall be disposed accordingly after the finality of the forfeiture proceedings.

Under the leadership of Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero, the Bureau of Customs continues to intensify its border protection measures to prevent the entry of products hazardous to the environment.