The Bureau of Customs has filed criminal complaints against two importers for their failed attempt to smuggle fake cigarettes and other goods worth P115 million.
In a statement, the bureau charges were filed against Goldlink Int’l Subic Inc. for the alleged misdeclaration and unlawful importation of over P111 million worth of counterfeit cigarettes on June 20 and 23, 2021 at the Port of Subic.
“Unlawful importation of counterfeit cigarettes is a violation of Republic Act No. 10863, otherwise known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), existing circulars of the National Tobacco Administration and the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines,” the BOC said.
Another importer, Lion King Industrial Corporation, is also facing a criminal complaint for the alleged misdeclaration and unlawful importation of hazardous chemicals worth P3.8 million at the Manila International Container Port.
“To date, 73 criminal cases have already been filed before the DOJ against 237 individuals and customs brokers,” the bureau said.