The Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Thursday inspected a warehouse in Imus, Cavite, and found an estimated P150 million worth of fake apparel, appliances, and general merchandise.
Armed with a Letter of Authority (LOA) signed by Customs Commissioner Yogi Filemon Ruiz, a team from the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service-Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP) and ESS-QRT proceeded to Hong Yun Real Estate Group, Inc. in M. Salud Road, Alapan II-A, Imus, Cavite, to inspect the contents of the warehouse.
“The implementation of this operation comes with reinforcement from different departments. It was also made possible by coordination with the police and local barangay officials. This is what it means to work with one goal in mind, which is to put a stop to this menace,” Ruiz said.
“From top to bottom, we are united in our aim to see our markets free from these contrabands as well smuggled fake products,” he added.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) and local barangay officials were notified of the implementation of the LOA. They then assisted the operative team to the location of the warehouse.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) and local barangay officials were notified of the implementation of the LOA. They then assisted the operative team to the location of the warehouse.
The Customs agents found ready-to-wear garments from brands such as Dickies, Mossimo, Bench, Levi’s, Puma, Fila, Mickey Mouse, Hello Kitty, and others, as well as appliances and general merchandise.
Intelligence Group Deputy Commissioner retired Maj. Gen. Juvymax Uy assured that the LOA was discussed with the warehouse’s representative and the security guard on duty, who acknowledged it before the team proceeded with the inspection.
“Following the proper process is critical in every operation of the BOC. Remember that big-time organizations behind these are used to circumvent the laws, whether here or elsewhere. We have always been careful with making sure cases like these won’t be dismissed because of the lack of due process,” Uy explained.
After the inspection, assigned customs examiners will conduct an inventory of the counterfeit items found in the warehouse. This would be witnessed by CIIS-MICP agents, as well as the representatives of the warehouse.
CIIS Director Jeoffrey Tacio credited the Customs team, who he said had been behind every successful operation this past year.
“You know, everyone’s mind is already on the upcoming holidays, but our team is still doing the job they are sworn to do. That’s how dedicated they are to protecting our markets, the sellers themselves, and the consumers,” he said.
BOC has intensified its campaign against smuggling following the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.
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