SUBIC FREEPORT – Some P6.669-million shipment of frozen chicken meat from Hong Kong misdeclared as cooked tofu have been intercepted by the Bureau of Customs-Port of Subic following the bureau’s intensified crackdown on agricultural smuggling and customs fraud.
Contained in a 40-foot container and declared as cooked tofu, the shipment was flagged for inspection following information indicating that it might contain frozen or processed food products and agricultural commodities. Examination revealed 1,380 cartons of frozen chicken breast and 174 cartons of frozen fish tofu, contrary to the declaration.
The shipment was recommended for the issuance of a warrant of seizure and detention for violations of RA 9711 (Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009); Rule 15(b)(4) and Rule 18(a)(1) of Joint DA-DOH Administrative Order No. 2015-0007, implementing RA 10611 (Food Safety Act of 2013); Article III, Section 1 of Department of Agriculture Administrative Circular No. 6, Series of 2022; in relation to Section 1113(f) of RA 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).
“The Port of Subic remains steadfast in its duty to protect our borders and ensure that all shipments entering the country comply with customs laws and regulations. Every interception is a reminder of our responsibility to safeguard legitimate trade and protect the interests of the Filipino people,” BOC-Subic district collector Atty. Geniefelle P. Lagmay said.
Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said the seizure demonstrates that the Bureau remains focused on its mandate despite recent organizational reforms.
“Despite the recent personnel movements and internal cleansing efforts at the Port of Subic, I expect our personnel to remain focused on protecting our borders and faithfully carrying out their responsibilities as public servants. Our commitment to preventing smuggling and safeguarding legitimate trade must remain steadfast,” he said. BOC-Subic/Punto News Team
