31-07-2025
BOC seizes P40.5-M misdeclared vapes, other goods from China
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) said Thursday its operatives at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) seized misdeclared vape products and other regulated goods valued at P40.5 million.
The seized shipments, which were loaded in three containers from China, were falsely declared as kitchenware, according to the BOC.
The BOC said a 100% physical examination of the shipments, conducted on July 14, 2025, led to the discovery of 81,000 pieces of assorted vape products, along with sacks of fully refined paraffin wax and other misdeclared items.
The shipments were held and subjected to inspection following derogatory information received by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS)-MICP.
According to the Customs Bureau, its Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno and other key officials also inspected the contraband.
Following the discovery of the misdeclared items, the BOC said Warrants of Seizure and Detention were issued on July 23, 2025.
The shipments are now under forfeiture proceedings for violations of Sections 117, 1400, 1401, and 1113 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), Republic Act 11900 or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act, and relevant Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) regulations, according to the Customs.
The BOC said it is also undertaking a case build-up to identify and prosecute those responsible, ensuring full accountability under the law.
"Our operations are anchored on a whole-of-agency approach that prioritizes intelligence, swift execution, and legal action against those who attempt to evade customs laws," said Nepomuceno.
For his part, MICP District Collector Rizalino Jose Torralba said his port district is committed to enforce anti-smuggling efforts.
"Smuggling operations involving vape products pose significant health and economic risks. The MICP fully supports Commissioner Ariel in safeguarding our borders and ensuring that only lawful and properly declared goods enter the country," said Torralba. — VDV, GMA Integrated News
