The Bureau of Customs (BOC), through the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service-Intellectual Property Rights Division (CIIS-IPRD), seized IPR-infringing goods worth Php590 million on May 10, 2022.

Armed with Letters of Authority (LOA) issued by BOC Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero, the implementing team composed of personnel from the CIIS-IPRD, BOC-Port of Manila (POM), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines inspected the warehouses inside Maclane Storage Facility, along Niog Road, Bacoor City, Cavite.

Prior to sealing of the subject warehouses, BOC examiners, in the presence of CIIS and the AFP operatives, conducted the initial inventory of counterfeit goods bearing the brand names such as Nike, Adidas, Lacoste, Dickies, among others. In addition, other items such as construction supplies, power tools, numerous marine communication and telecommunication devices, assorted foodstuff, to name a few, were also found during the operation. Further inspection on site also revealed two (2) forty-foot (2×40) containers filled with IPR-infringing goods.

The representatives of the warehouses and containers were informed by the implementing team to provide importation documents and other pertinent permits covering all goods found thereat. Further investigation is also underway for other possible violations of the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines (RA 8293) and the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (RA 10863).

The Bureau of Customs, under the leadership of Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero, continues to be vigilant against the proliferation of counterfeit goods that poses safety hazards to local consumers.