CLARK FREEPORT – Misdeclared vape products from China worth some P8.244 million were intercepted by the Bureau of Customs-Port of Clark recently, underscoring the agency’s 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 on Aug. 11.
The examination revealed 69 boxes containing a total of 20,610 pieces of Black Ultra vape pods in various flavors.
On Aug. 12, a warrant of seizure and detention was issued against the shipment for violations of Sections 117, 1113 (i) and 1400 of RA 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act), 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 and CIIS on August 14, the shipment’s recipient was arrested in Quiapo, Manila.
“The BOC will remain steadfast in guarding our country’s borders to protect Filipino consumers from illegal importations,” said Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno, reaffirming the agency’s strong stance against all forms of smuggling.
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. We commend our personnel and remain unwavering in our mandate to curb smuggling.”
The BOC said it remains steadfast in pursuing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to secure the country’s trade system and protect the health and safety of Filipinos. BOC-Port of Clark
