Subic Freeport closure ‘not an option’

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority chairperson and administrator Rolen Paulino blasted alleged reports that the Subic Bay Freeport should be closed to prevent smuggling in the area.

Paulino stressed that the SBMA is already intensifying efforts to apprehend smugglers and prevent the entry of illegal goods to the Freeport and is closely working with other concerned government agencies to curb the ongoing smuggling problem.

To recall, the Freeport has been under fire from Albay Congressman Joey Salceda after the lawmaker said that the Subic Freeport should be closed due to the alleged “rampant smuggling.”

The chairman of the House Committee on Ways and Means added that they will probe the Freeport for the supposed smuggling.

However, Paulino reiterated that the entry of items inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone is still subject for inspection, adding that if ever these items pass thru the gates of the Freeport and into localities here, then that would be considered as smuggling.

He added that the SBMA, along with the Bureau of Customs, Department of Agriculture and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency inspect of any docking ships at the Freeport.

“We first conduct a Ship Pre-Arrival Meeting and inspect the shipments to see if there are any misdeclaration, misclassification or undervaluation in their cargoes. If we find anything suspicious, we hold the shipment and investigate,” Paulino said.

He added that if there is indication of any of the said fraudulence, pertinent agencies will hold the shipment and will prepare charges accordingly.

The official said that the seizure of smuggled items in the Subic Bay Freeport before it enters into Philippine territory is a sign that the SBMA and other government agencies tasked to guard the entry points are doing their job.

“We believe that Representative Salceda is only looking out for the good of the country, but closing the Subic Bay Freeport is not the answer to stop the smuggling, especially of agricultural product,” Paulino said.

PhotograPh by Joey Sanchez Mendoza for the daily tribune@tribunephl_joey the calm waters and pristine shores of a beach in laiya, batangas provide a temporary escape to tourists wanting to get away from the bustling city even for just a while.