Operatives of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service-Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP) seized three container vans loaded with smuggled vape products and other regulated goods valued at P40.5 million.
These shipments from China were falsely declared as kitchenware, a clear case of technical smuggling. Hold Orders for the shipments were issued as early as January 2025, following derogatory information received by the CIIS-MICP.
A 100% physical examination was conducted on July 14, which led to the discovery of 81,000 pieces of assorted vape products, along with sacks of fully refined paraffin wax and other misdeclared items.
Warrants of Seizure and Detention were issued on July 23, 2025, and the shipments are now under forfeiture proceedings for violations of Sections 117, 1400, 1401, and 1113 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), Republic Act No. 11900 or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act, and relevant Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) regulations.
The BOC is building a case to prosecute those responsible and ensure accountability.
Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno emphasized the importance of vigilance in addressing unlawful importation. “Our operations are anchored on a whole-of-agency approach that prioritizes intelligence, swift execution, and legal action against those who attempt to evade customs laws.”
MICP District Collector Rizalino Jose Torralba reiterated the port’s unrelenting commitment to enforcement. “Smuggling operations involving vape products pose significant health and economic risks. The MICP fully supports Commissioner Ariel in safeguarding our borders and ensuring that only lawful and properly declared goods enter the country,” he stated.
