Customs NAIA intensifies efforts against illegal wildlife smuggling

The Bureau of Customs – Port of NAIA turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Wildlife Traffic Monitoring Unit (DENR-WTMU) 1,529 live exotic turtles on 3 March 2019 at the NAIA Terminal 2, Pasay City.

The confiscated turtles (Star Tortoise, Redfoot Tortoise, Sulcata Tortoise, Red-eared Slider live species ) were found inside the left-behind luggage of a certain arriving Filipino passenger from flight number PR 311 Hong Kong. 

The passenger may have been informed of the vigilance of the port against illegal wildlife trade and its penalties, thus leaving the four (4) x-rayed luggage unclaimed in the arrival area.
Illegal Wildlife Trading is a violation of RA 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act) and RA 9147 (Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act).

Violators may face imprisonment of one year and 1 day to  2 years and a fine of P20,000.00 to P200,000.00.

In 2018, the Port also turned over to DENR a total of 560 wildlife and endangered species including the 250 geckos, 254 corals and other reptiles which were smuggled through air parcels, baggage and shipments. 

Earlier this year, 63 Iguanas, Chameleon and Bearded Dragons were also intercepted through the efforts and vigilance of the frontliners and operatives of Customs NAIA.

BOC NAIA  will continuously protect the borders against importation and exportation of illegal  wildlife trade and other prohibited and anti-social goods.#

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PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE (PIO)Bureau of CustomsG/F OCOM Building, South Harbor (Port of Manila), ManilaLandline: (+632) 527-8259Fax: (+632) 527-1968Facebook: Bureau of Customs PHTwitter: @CustomsPH