In line with its mission to intensify the crackdown on illicit trade and uphold regulatory compliance, the Bureau of Customs (BOC), through the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service-Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP), conducted a targeted inspection on March 11, 2025, at warehouses in Malabon. The operation led to the seizure of various illicit goods, with an estimated market value of ₱1.2 billion.
During the inspection, a joint enforcement team comprising CIIS-MICP, the Enforcement and Security Service-MICP, and the Philippine Coast Guard-Task Force Aduana discovered a substantial volume of counterfeit goods, disposable vapes lacking Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) tax stamps and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Import Commodity Clearance stickers, and other unregulated merchandise stored within the premises.
Acting upon President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for stricter enforcement measures, the BOC remains steadfast in its pursuit to eradicate the illegal distribution of counterfeit and unregistered imported products. This initiative reinforces the government’s dedication in fostering a fair and competitive market, protecting intellectual property rights, and mitigating economic losses caused by smuggling and fraudulent activities.
District Collector Rizalino Torralba of MICP underscored the significance of this operation, stating that the BOC’s sustained vigilance is crucial in preventing illicit goods from reaching the local market and harming legitimate businesses.
Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio emphasized the agency’s strong stance against smuggling and counterfeiting, emphasizing that the BOC will continue to implement stringent enforcement measures to safeguard consumers, businesses, and national revenue.
The authorities sealed and padlocked the warehouses, ensuring that the confiscated goods remain secured until an official inventory is conducted.
Consequently, a Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) will be issued against the confiscated goods for violation of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) in relation to Republic Act No. 8293, also known as the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines.
