The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has seized in two separate operations at the Port of Manila (POM) more than 112,000 “unregistered vape products misdeclared as insulated cups” valued at nearly P102,6 million.
In a statement, the BOC said the first shipment was flagged based on intelligence information received by the bureau’s Enforcement Group, prompting the issuance of an order upon the request of Deputy Commissioner Teddy Sandy Raval, leading to the inspection of two 40-foot vans containing the smuggled vape products.
The items were packed in 233 cartons containing 46,600 assorted flavored vape products, with an estimated market value of P23.3 million, with assessed duties and taxes at P30.2 million.
POM district collector Alexander Gerard Alviar is expected to issue a seizure and detention order against the shipment pursuant to the country’s Customs laws.
In a separate operation, the POM-Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) confiscated another shipment of “under-declared” worth P72.4 million.
This brought the number of seized vape products to 112,000 112,750 valued at P102.639 million.
The twin raids align with President Marcos directive to curb smuggling and the illegal trade of tobacco and vape products, the BOC said.
“The BOC, in coordination with the DTI, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), and Philippine National Police (PNP), continues to enforce Republic Act No. 11900, or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act, to uphold product standards and prevent minors’ access to vape products,” the BOC statement read.
Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio warned smugglers to cease and desist from pursuing their illicit trade, citing the government’s firm stance against smuggling.
He stressed that the agency would not stop at apprehensions, as the BOC is similarly committed in filing criminal cases against violators. He also commended the Enforcement Group, Intelligence Group, Port of Manila and partner agencies for their coordinated efforts in enforcing trade regulations and protecting public health.