The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has seized P3.245 million worth of unmarked fuel together with a tank truck in two crackdown operations in the Bicol Region.
In a statement on Tuesday, the BOC said two gasoline stations were engaged in the illegal sale of unmarked fuel, the names of which were not disclosed.
Specifically, authorities seized 30,891.5 liters of gasoline and diesel worth P1.745 million, along with a fuel truck valued at P1.5 million.
The BOC said the seizures were conducted last January 24 and 29.
The seizures were made in violation of Section 7 of DOF-BOC-BIR Joint Circular 001.2021 and Sections 1113 (a) and (k) of Republic Act 10863, otherwise known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
To combat fuel smuggling, the BOC conducts random field tests of retail stations and tank trucks to verify compliance of fuel sold to the public under the Fuel Marking Program.
Samples that fail testing indicate smuggling or non-payment of taxes.
“The crackdown on illegal fuel sales is a strong reminder of the BOC’s ongoing efforts to safeguard government revenues and ensure fair competition among compliant businesses,” said Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio.
For his part, District Collector Guillermo Pedro Francia IV said the recent operations in the Bicol Region reflect the bureau’s commitment in enforcing the law and ensuring compliance within the fuel sector.
“The identification and seizure of non-compliant fuel highlights our proactive stance against illegal fuel sales and tax evasion. We urge all fuel station operators to strictly adhere to regulatory standards to avoid severe consequences,” he said.
