In support of the Marcos administration’s drive to strengthen border security, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) continues to take decisive action against illicit trade intercepting five (5) packages of misdeclared Agarwood weighing approximately 11.21 kilograms and valued at ₱8,407,500 at a warehouse facility in Lapu-Lapu City, through the Port of Cebu – Subport of Mactan and the coordinated efforts of its intelligence and enforcement units.
“This interception serves as clear evidence of the Bureau of Customs’ commitment to combating illicit trade remains steadfast, particularly in implementing and enforcing environmental and wildlife protection laws to ensure that protected species are not put at risk and our natural resources remain safe from unlawful activities,” Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said.
The packages, declared as Alingatong Stinging Nettle, underwent physical examination witnessed by Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), Enforcement and Security Service (ESS), and X-Ray Inspection Project (XIP), Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) representatives.
Inspection confirmed that the shipments contained Agarwood, a protected species regulated under the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants (CITES) and requiring proper DENR permits.
The parcels originated from Agusan del Sur and were intended for export to Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates.
Subport of Mactan Collector Gerardo Campo underscored the significance of the interception.
“Agarwood trafficking undermines environmental protection efforts and fuels the illegal wildlife and fauna trade.”
“Agarwood trafficking undermines environmental protection efforts and fuels the illegal wildlife and fauna trade. This successful operation demonstrates the vigilance, coordination, and commitment of our teams in stopping the illicit movement of regulated species,” he said.
In view of the findings, Port of Cebu District Collector Alexandra Lumontad promptly issued a Warrant of Seizure and Detention against the shipment pursuant to Republic Act No. 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act; Republic Act No. 9147, the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act; and other pertinent laws.
Lumontad likewise commended the collective efforts of the enforcement and intelligence units.
“The Port of Cebu stands firm against the illegal exportation of protected natural resources.”
“The Port of Cebu stands firm against the illegal exportation of protected natural resources,” she stressed.
“This seizure reinforces our dedication to law enforcement, environmental protection, and the responsible stewardship of our nation’s biodiversity,” Lumontad concluded.
