The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has seized a total of P30.1 billion worth of smuggled goods from the start of the year up to July 25, the agency said in a statement, as it remains committed to seize illegal and smuggled goods entering the country.
The BOC said yesterday that amount was the result of 654 seizure operations during the given period. The seized goods include various agricultural products amounting to over P2.9 billion.
In the same statement, the BOC said it takes the President’s State of the Nation Address as a call to action.
“We reaffirm our commitment to addressing the pressing issues of smuggling and hoarding of agricultural products in our country. We stand fully supportive of the President’s directives and will collaborate closely in the investigation he has ordered,” the BOC said.
To bolster efforts in curbing illegal activities, the BOC said it is set to implement a series of proactive measures.
“We will enhance both pre-arrival and post-arrival technical targeting and fraud detection mechanisms for imported goods. Investing in additional equipment and providing capacity building for our personnel that will further strengthen our intelligence and enforcement capabilities,” the BOC said.
“In our pursuit of effective enforcement, we will intensify collaboration, joint operations, and information sharing with local and international law enforcement and regulatory agencies, including but not limited to the International Criminal Police Organization, National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Philippine Coast Guard, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, Food and Drug Administration, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Agriculture, Department of Social Welfare and Development, among others,” it added.
The BOC noted its commitment to expedite the prosecution of filed cases before the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Professional Regulation Commission.
“Additionally, through DOJ, we will strive to increase the conviction rate of smugglers, serving as a deterrent to others involved in such illicit activities,” it said.
In maintaining the integrity of its processes, the BOC said its Account Management Office (AMO) has processed the accreditation of 7,733 importers and 1,263 customs brokers from January 1 to July 25.
Simultaneously, AMO revoked the accreditation of 95 importers and 36 customs brokers due to violations of customs laws, rules and regulations.
Over the same period, the agency said, seven show-cause orders have been issued against erring BOC personnel, while 66 BOC employees are currently undergoing investigation by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service.
“The BOC remains committed in protecting the integrity of our borders, ensuring compliance with customs laws, and fostering a secure environment for the nation’s economic growth,” the agency said.
“We will work diligently to implement these measures and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to achieve our common goal of eradicating smuggling and hoarding of agricultural products,” it added.
