BOC seized PhP3.245-M unmarked fuel and tank truck in Bicol crackdown operations
The seized fuel truck. Photo by BOC
MANILA — In a series of operations under the Fuel Marking Program (FMP), the Bureau of Customs-Legazpi’s Enforcement and Security Service (BOC-ESS), in coordination with Société Générale de Surveillance Philippines, successfully identified two gasoline stations in the Bicol Region engaged in the illegal sale of unmarked fuel.
Authorities seized 30,891.5 liters of gasoline and diesel worth PhP1.745 million, along with a fuel truck valued at PhP1.5 million, bringing the estimated total confiscated assets to PhP3.245 million.
The seizures were made in violation of Section 7 of DOF-BOC-BIR Joint Circular 001.2021 and Sections 1113 (a) and (k) of RA 10863, otherwise known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
“The recent operations in the Bicol Region reflect our unwavering commitment in enforcing the law and ensuring compliance within the fuel sector. The identification and seizure of non-compliant fuel highlights our proactive stance against illegal fuel sales and tax evasion. We urge all fuel station operators to strictly adhere to regulatory standards to avoid severe consequences,” said District Collector Guillermo Pedro Francia IV.
“The crackdown on illegal fuel sales is a strong reminder of the Bureau of Customs’ ongoing efforts to safeguard government revenues and ensure fair competition among compliant businesses,” said Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio.
Article continues after this advertisementTo combat fuel smuggling, the BOC conducts random field tests of retail stations and tank trucks to verify compliance of fuel sold to the public under the Fuel Marking Program. Samples that fail testing indicate smuggling or non-payment of taxes.
