The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday urged the public to remain vigilant when purchasing goods online and to report defective or counterfeit products following the seizure of P202 million worth of fake footwear and equipment in separate operations in Bulacan and Pampanga.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. made the appeal after operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) confiscated counterfeit items and arrested four Chinese nationals during the raids.
“Protect your purchases. Check, verify, and report counterfeit goods online. Public trust is non-negotiable, and the PNP will act against anyone who undermines it,” Nartatez said.
He added that authorities are taking a multi-pronged approach to dismantle the supply chain of counterfeit products.
In Pulilan, Bulacan, CIDG operatives seized 1,119 boxes of counterfeit shoes valued at P141 million, 30 sacks of footwear accessories worth P39 million, an injector machine valued at P2.5 million, and three molding machines worth P14.2 million. Three Chinese nationals were arrested there.
In a separate operation in San Simon, Pampanga, authorities arrested another Chinese national and seized counterfeit Crocs slippers worth P513,206 and a molding machine valued at P4.75 million.
The operations were conducted following information from a civilian informant and complaints from online buyers who received defective products from online sellers.
Nartatez said the PNP is coordinating with the Bureau of Customs, Department of Trade and Industry, and the National Bureau of Investigation to identify and arrest the masterminds behind the illegal trade.
“We are fully committed to protecting legitimate businesses and consumers. Expect aggressive action against everyone involved, whether local or foreign,” he said.
