Customs seizes undeclared JP¥10 million cash at Mactan-Cebu Airport

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) at the Subport of Mactan seized an undeclared JP¥10,000,000 in cash, equivalent to US$69,065, from an arriving passenger at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport.

In a statement, BOC said the undeclared foreign currency was confiscated from a Korean citizen. Some of the money was returned to them.

“The freely importable amount of JPY1,480,000 or the equivalent amount of USD10,000 was released to the passenger, however, the Subport of Mactan recommended the issuance of a warrant of seizure and detention against JPY8,520,000,” the BOC said.

The warrant was recommended as it violated the Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas regulations on cross-border currency transfers and the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.

“The Bureau of Customs remains vigilant in its efforts to prevent the illicit movement of local and foreign currency across our borders. We urge all travelers to comply with the declaration requirements to avoid any inconvenience or legal consequences,” BOC-Subport of Mactan Collector Gerardo Campo said.

Amounts exceeding $10,000 must be declared through the E-Travel system and the Foreign Currency Declaration Form upon arrival and departure from any Philippine airport, Campo added. — Mariel Celine Serquiña/BM, GMA Integrated News