The Bureau of Customs has intercepted smuggled cigarettes from China worth P60 million at the Manila International Container Port.
The agency said the shipments were declared pieces of furniture, bags, cartons and other products imported by Ocean World Enterprises.
“Upon verification, it was found that subject containers actually comprised 500 cases and 1,198 boxes of smuggled cigarettes from China with an estimated value of P60 million,” The bureau said in a statement.
“Currently, a total of 11 shipments are being investigated on suspicion of illegal importation of cigarettes,” Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero said.
He says the importer will face charges, while the other shipments of the importer will now be subject to further investigation to ascertain if they are also in violation of Customs laws, rules and regulations.
“The smuggling of items such as cigarettes and other illicit and regulated goods are strictly prohibited and will be met with the full implementation of the law. The agency remains steadfast in its mandate of protecting the country’s borders,” Guerrero said.