The Bureau of Customs – Port of Clark intercepted P8.244 million worth of misdeclared vape products from China, underscoring its commitment to safeguarding the country’s borders against illicit trade.
Acting on derogatory information from the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), BOC personnel subjected the shipment—falsely declared as “non-commercial items such as shoes and clothes”—to x-ray scanning and 100% physical examination.
The examination revealed 69 boxes containing a total of 20,610 pieces of Black Ultra vape pods in various flavors.
The examination revealed 69 boxes containing a total of 20,610 pieces of Black Ultra vape pods in various flavors.
A Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) was issued against the shipment for violations of Sections 117, 1113 (i) and 1400 of Republic Act (R.A.) No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), in relation to Bureau of Philippine Standards – Department of Trade and Industry (BPS-DTI) Department Order No. 22-16, series of 2022.
In a joint operation with the Philippine National Police – Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) and CIIS, the shipment’s recipient was arrested in Quiapo, Manila.
Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno reaffirmed the agency’s strong stance against all forms of smuggling.
“The BOC will remain steadfast in guarding our country’s borders to protect Filipino consumers from illegal importations,” Nepomuceno stressed.
Port of Clark District Collector Jairus Reyes lauded the intelligence work and vigilance of BOC personnel.
“This accomplishment demonstrates the effectiveness of our intelligence gathering and the dedication of our people in intercepting smuggled goods before they reach the Philippine market.”
“This accomplishment demonstrates the effectiveness of our intelligence gathering and the dedication of our people in intercepting smuggled goods before they reach the Philippine market. We commend our personnel and remain unwavering in our mandate to curb smuggling,” Reyes said.
Guided by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for secure and transparent trade, the Bureau of Customs continues to uphold its commitment to safeguarding the health and safety of the Filipino people.
