Two companies which tried to bring in P20-million worth of misdeclared and undervalued goods now own the dubious distinction of being the first casualties this year of government’s sutained war against smuggling.
Customs Commissioner Angelito A. Alvarez and deputy Commissioner for Enforcement Group Horacio P. Suansing led today the inspection of seized articles consigned to Thompson Hardware and Lighting Center and I.R.M. Trading.
In his report, Suansing told Alvarez that the shipment of Thompson Hardware which were declared under Import Entry 134909 as 2,400 pairs of unbranded shoes turned out to be 2,400 pairs of unknown quality brand, GEOX Ladies and Men’s Shoes.
Suansing disclosed that Thompson Hardware made a fraudulent claim that its imported shoes were worth no more than US$ 2.162 or P94.436 a pair and paid the BOC a measly sum of P71,365.
Market verification conducted by lawyer Imelda Cruz, head of the Enforcement Group’s Operations and Intelligence Office, revealed that GEOX shoes fetch a price of about P5,000 pair in the retail market.
Alvarez said that for trying to save about P2 million pesos in duties and taxes, Thompson Hardware “now stands to lose its entire shipment with an aggregate retail value of at least P12 million.”
Suansing also reported the apprehension of two containers stuffed with used clothing, more commonly known as ukay-ukay. The consignee, I.R.M. Trading misdeclared the contraband worth a t least P8 million under Import Entries 137203 and 137198 as fabrics and woven fabrics.
Alvarez said the importation of ukay-ukay “is banned under Republic Act No. 4653.”
According to Suansing, all pertinent records have already been forwarded to the Office of the Commissioner and the Port of Manila preparatory to the institution of seizure proceedings against the subject illegal shipments.
He added that the sale of the shoes via public auction could generate additional revenue for the government while the used clothing would be turned over to the DSWD during times of disasters and clamities.
Alvarez commended Suansing and his team for the unwavering support to his personal crusade to make smuggling unprofitable. He also called for an immediate investigation of the persons responsible for the smuggling attempt and the filing of appropriate charges against them.
