The Bureau of Customs – Manila International Container Port (BOC-MICP) made a significant interception on Tuesday (May 14), seizing three containers loaded with illegal cigarettes.

The contraband, valued at approximately P791 million, consisted of illicit cigarettes and vape products from various brands originating from Singapore.

The discovery of these illegal goods was prompted by derogatory information received by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service of MICP (CIIS-MICP) under Deputy Commissioner Juvymax Uy. The shipment, which purported to contain 3,845 cases of tobacco products, arrived at the MICP on May 11, 2024. However, upon physical inspection, it was revealed to contain 4,215 master cases of cigarettes and 1,053 master cases of heat sticks.

Further investigation uncovered that the confiscated cigarettes and heat sticks lacked mandatory printed graphic health warnings on their packaging, violating R.A. 11900 and RA 10643. Additionally, the consignee of record was found to be unregistered with the National Tobacco Administration (NTA), contravening NTA Board Resolution 079-2005.

District Collector Carmelita M. Talusan, leading the MICP, reiterated the commitment to support Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio’s directives of heightened vigilance against smuggling activities. This includes pursuing criminal and administrative charges against those involved.

Commissioner Rubio emphasized the agency’s dedication to upholding regulations and protecting consumers from potentially harmful products, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify efforts against illicit vape and tobacco products.

A Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) will be issued against the seized shipment for violating various provisions of RA 10863 (CMTA), RA 11900, RA 10643, and NTA Board Resolution no. 079-2005.

📷 Bureau of Customs PH