The Bureau of Customs seized smuggled counterfeit goods, including branded products such as Gucci, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Nike, Rolex, Apple, Hermes, and Dior, worth P11 billion in Binondo, Manila.
The owners of the seized goods were given a 15-day period to provide proof of payment of correct duties and taxes and evidence of legitimate importation but failed to produce until June 28, 2024.
“For failure to present the required documents, a Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) was issued against the subject counterfeit goods pursuant to Sections 214 and 1113 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act in relation to R.A. No. 8293, also known as the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines,” the bureau said in a statement.
Brand owners who accompanied the Customs officers confirmed the seized items were counterfeit.
The counterfeit goods will be destroyed through shredding and rendering at facilities accredited by the BOC, ensuring these illegal products are permanently removed from circulation.
“We will not tolerate any form of counterfeiting.This successful operation sends a clear message to counterfeiters that we are committed to upholding the law and protecting our markets,” Deputy Commissioner Juvymax Uy of the BOC Intelligence Group said.
