The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has conducted a series of crackdown operations last Friday, uncovering suspected smuggled disposable vape products, motor parts and accessories with a total estimated value of P94.08 million.
In a statement, the BOC said the operations were conducted in facilities located in Manila and Laguna.
Specifically, authorities discovered disposable vapes valued at approximately P12.6 million in a vape shop in San Pedro, Laguna.
On the other hand, a separate operation in Quiapo, Manila, led to the seizure of assorted imported vape devices, vape pods and disposable vapes worth around P6.48 million, along with motorcycle parts and accessories valued at approximately P75 million.
The authorities have temporarily secured the entrance and exit gates of the establishments with padlocks and seals. An inventory of the imported items will be conducted, with representatives from the respective shops or warehouses present to witness the process.
Nevertheless, in the observance of the due process requirements mandated under Section 224 of Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, the respective warehouse owners/operators are given 15 days from service of the Letters of Authority to refute the findings and submit documents to show that the subject vape products and motorcycle parts and accessories were legitimately imported and paid correct duties and taxes due thereon.
“Our goal is to protect consumers and the public from the dangers of these illegal substances, which can pose significant health risks and undermine public safety,” said BOC commissioner Bienvenido Rubio.
“The confiscation of P75 million worth of motorcycle parts and accessories is also noteworthy, as it demonstrates our ongoing commitment in protecting legitimate businesses in the country,” he added.
