In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.’s directive to intensify the fight against smuggling, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) supported the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in a successful operation against fuel smuggling at Marina Beach, Brgy. Alas-asin, Mariveles, Bataan, on February 7, 2025.

The NBI-Criminal Intelligence Division (CRID), along with its Counterterrorism and Counterintelligence Divisions, led the enforcement action in collaboration with the BOC and other government agencies. The operation resulted in the apprehension of individuals involved in the illegal importation and distribution of petroleum products. Authorities seized a motor tanker, MV Effraine, and 11 lorry trucks — four carrying a total of 674,520 liters of illicit fuel valued at ₱22.438 million.

Fuel marking tests conducted yielded ‘failed’ results in both initial and confirmatory tests, confirming that the seized fuel did not meet legally required tax markings. BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio emphasized that this operation reflects the Bureau’s strong commitment to enforcing customs laws and protecting government revenues.  “Under the leadership of President Marcos, Jr., the BOC remains fully committed to supporting enforcement agencies like the NBI in their fight against smuggling and ensuring that all petroleum products in the country comply with tax regulations.”

The owners, officers, and crew members of MV Effraine will face charges for violations of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), and Republic Act No. 10963, also known as the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law. This latest enforcement action aligns with the Marcos administration’s intensified campaign against economic sabotage and illicit trade.

BOC-Port of Limay Acting District Collector Kriden Balgomera reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to supporting inter-agency efforts in curbing fuel smuggling. “The BOC will continue to work alongside the NBI and other enforcement agencies to ensure that those engaging in fuel smuggling are held accountable. This is part of our intensified campaign under the Bureau’s 5-Point Priority Program for 2025,” the Collector stated.

The BOC remains committed to protecting government revenues and maintaining the integrity of the country’s trade system through strict enforcement and collaboration with law enforcement agencies.

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