Seized smuggled goods hit P8.4 B in 1st half

The government confiscated P8.37-billion worth of smuggled products, mostly counterfeit goods, from January to June.

Data from the Bureau of Customs showed that the agency had 293 seizures of smuggled products valued at P8.37 billion in the first half.

Counterfeit goods accounted for the bulk or about 62 percent at P5.23 billion. The other top seized commodities were illegal drugs worth P1.67 billion and general merchandise valued at P389 million.

The Customs also implemented 58 letters of authority during the sixmonth period, 44 of which yielded positive results.

Some 78 alert orders were likewise issued, 57 of which were positive for violation of pertinent customs laws, rules and regulations.

The confiscation of smuggled goods is part of the government’s thrust to strengthen border security through the Customs’ intelligence group and enforcement group.

BOC said it would continue to intensify border protection efforts to protect the country against the entry of illicit goods.

In another release, the BOC said 67 additional show cause orders were issued in the first half of the year that led to the dismissal, suspension, relief, and reshuffling of errant Customs employees.

Customs conducted 333 personnel investigations that resulted in seven filed administrative cases before the agency and another seven cases elevated to the National Bureau of Investigation.

With this, three personnel were dismissed, seven were suspended, one reprimanded, 27 relieved, and 249 employees were reshuffled to various offices and ports due to irregular activities.