In line with its enhanced enforcement measures against illegal importation, the Bureau of Customs (BOC), through the Port of Legazpi—Enforcement and Security Service (ESS), has reinforced its collaboration with partner law enforcement agencies to safeguard public health and uphold the integrity of the textile industry. As part of these efforts, the BOC has taken custody of 45 bales of used clothing “Ukay-Ukay” worth approximately PhP291,000, which were apprehended by Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) thru operations in Pasacao and Sorsogon.
In the first operation, 33 bales with an estimated value of PhP231,000 were discovered aboard a fourteen-wheeler truck originating from Caloocan City and headed for Masbate. Upon inspection, the owners could not produce any legal documents related to their cargo.

Meanwhile, 12 bales valued at PhP60,000 were intercepted in the second operation while conducting a panel inspection onboard a public bus at the Port of Matnog.

Corresponding seizure and forfeiture proceedings will be instituted against the apprehended bundles/bales of used clothing for violation of Section 118 (g) of R.A. 10863, otherwise known as the “Customs Modernization and Tariff Act,” in relation to R.A. 4653, otherwise known as “An Act to Safeguard the Health of the People and Maintain the Dignity of the Nation by Declaring it a National Policy to Prohibit the Commercial Importation of Textile Articles Commonly Known as Used Clothing and Rags.”

District Collector Guillermo Pedro Francia IV stated that the BOC and its partners will continue to monitor and enforce compliance with existing laws, conducting regular inspections to ensure that all imported goods meet the necessary standards and legal requirements to curb illegal trade practices.

Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio affirms, “The BOC, in cooperation with our partner law enforcement agencies, will continue its pursuit of a safer and more secure market, free from the hazards that these illegally imported items may inflict on our economy and our people.”