A series of crackdown operations in Manila and Laguna led to the discovery of around P94 million worth of suspected smuggled disposable vape products, motor parts, and accessories, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) reported.
During an inspection last Friday, Aug. 23, agents from the BOC and the Philippine Coast Guard discovered disposable vapes valued at approximately P12.6 million in a vape shop in San Pedro, Laguna.
In a separate operation in Quiapo, Manila, authorities seized assorted imported vape devices, pods, disposable vapes worth around P6.475 million, and motorcycle parts and accessories valued at approximately P75 million.
The authorities have temporarily secured the entrance and exit gates of the establishments with padlocks and seals.
An inventory of the imported items will be conducted by assigned Customs Examiners, with agents from the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service and representatives from the respective shops or warehouses present to witness the process.
The respective warehouse owners and operators were afforded 15 days to refute the findings and submit documents to show that the subject vape products and motorcycle parts and accessories were legitimately imported and paid the correct duties and taxes due.
“These crackdowns were conducted in response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify our anti-smuggling efforts against the illicit trade of tobacco and vape products,” BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio said.
“Our goal is to protect consumers and the public from the dangers of these illegal substances, which can pose significant health risks and undermine public safety,” Rubio added.
“The confiscation of P75 million worth of motorcycle parts and accessories is also noteworthy, as it demonstrates our ongoing commitment in protecting legitimate businesses in the country,” he further said.