The Bureau of Customs (BOC) announced on Tuesday a major interception at the Manila International Container Port, where authorities seized misdeclared pharmaceutical products from China valued at approximately PHP33 million. Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno detailed that the shipment was originally declared as containing 1,144 pet cages, but a routine spot check uncovered a significant discrepancy.
Discovery of Undeclared Goods
During the inspection, customs personnel discovered 330 boxes of pharmaceutical products that were not declared and lacked the necessary permits from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These medicines, with an estimated worth exceeding PHP33 million, were hidden among the declared items. Additionally, authorities found 400 boxes of other undeclared commodities, including electronics, cosmetics, automotive parts, hardware, and various accessories, valued at PHP19.69 million.
Official Statements and Warnings
Commissioner Nepomuceno issued a stern warning against illicit trade, stating, "We will not allow illicit trade to undermine the safety of our people or the integrity of our economy. I just want to assure those who plan to smuggle illegal products into the country that I and the BOC will ensure that all those responsible for this type of activity will be held accountable." He emphasized the bureau's commitment to enforcing regulations and protecting public health.
Enhanced Vigilance and Collaboration
MICP District Collector Felipe Geoffrey de Vera highlighted that the port will maintain heightened vigilance at the border to prevent similar incidents. The inspection was conducted with the presence of officials from the FDA and representatives from pharmaceutical firm UNILAB Inc., underscoring a collaborative effort to combat smuggling. This seizure underscores ongoing challenges in trade compliance and the importance of strict customs enforcement to safeguard against unauthorized and potentially unsafe products entering the market.
