BOC: Smuggled frozen mackerel worth P202M seized in Manila port
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and Rubio, along with District Collector Alexander Gerard E. Alviar, on Monday, March 3, 2025, inspect the P202 million worth of smuggled frozen mackerel at the Port of Manila. (Photo courtesy of the Bureau of Customs Facebook)
MANILA, Philippines — Authorities seized smuggled frozen mackerel worth P202 million at the Port of Manila, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) said on Monday.
According to the BOC, the 19-container shipment, which originated from China, was declared as frozen fried taro in an attempt to bypass regulations.
It was flagged on January 25, following a request from the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service and the Plant Quarantine Service-Bureau of Plant Industry.
The BOC said authorities issued an alert order on February 13, leading to the physical inspection of the shipment from February 18 to 19.
Upon discovering the misdeclaration, the BOC said it immediately issued a warrant of seizure and detention for violating the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
Article continues after this advertisement“The illegal entry of agricultural products threatens both our farmers and food security,” Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said.
Article continues after this advertisement“We are intensifying our enforcement efforts to stop smuggling syndicates from taking advantage of our trade system,” he added. “This operation demonstrates our commitment to upholding customs laws and protecting local industries.”
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., Rubio, and District Collector Alexander Gerard Alviar inspected the seized containers on Monday.
The bureau said Rubio lauded the collaboration between the BOC, the Department of Agriculture, and other agencies in the seizure of the smuggled goods, which reinforces the government’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s economy and food supply.
