Agents of the Bureau of Customs seized imported cosmetic products and supplements when they raided a warehouse in Valenzuela City on Friday, Oct. 1.
Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero said the confiscated items have no approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The agency is still verifying the market value of the goods.
Guerrero, who signed the Letter of Authority (LOA), said that the smuggling of imported items is one of the reasons why local businesses are struggling at the moment.
“We’re already in the middle of the pandemic and our economy and people are suffering,” said Guerrero.
“I think the Bureau has one of the biggest roles in helping protect the economy. When we stop these illegal goods from entering the market, we are ensuring the protection of our local businesses, especially those who are already struggling because of COVID," he added.
The raid was carried out at No. 8 Malakas St., Corner Santiago St. in Valenzuela City at 8:40 p.m.
Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence Group of BOC, Raniel T. Ramiro, said the goods were brought to the BOC premises at midnight of the same day since it will be subjected to further inspection and will be recommended for the issuance of Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD).
The operation of the BOC-MICP (Manila International Container Port) was in partnership with the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).