By Raymund Antonio
Various undeclared medicines have been seized at the Mactan International Airport, but the Bureau of Customs-Port of Cebu is still waiting for clearance for its proper disposition.
(Customs Cebu / MANILA BULLETIN)
Port of Cebu district collector and lawyer Elvira Cruz said the medicines were found during a physical examination on the baggage of a foreign passenger identified as Douglas Booker.
Booker arrived at the airport last November 6 carrying the medicines. He came from Hong Kong.
Customs examiner Cirila Lumacad conducted a physical examination on the passenger's baggage, which contained the medicines.
The lady port collector issued a warrant of seizure and detention against the undeclared medicines in violation of Section 1113 Section (f) in relation to Section 117, Section 1113 (i) and Section 1404 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
Air travelers are required to secure a clearance from the Food and Drug Administration for the importation and exportation of pharmaceutical products.
Cruz directed the Customs Enforcement and Security Service to take custody of the medicines to “strictly observe the Customs Memorandum Order No. 8-84.”
The subject items are presently stored for safekeeping waiting for final disposition, she said.
The confiscated medicines included those to treat kidney disease and cough as well as antibiotics, but they reportedly have an expiration date this year.