Customs seizes P10M worth of smuggled onions from China

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized some P10 million worth of smuggled onions that were misdeclared as ice cream from China, the agency announced Wednesday.

In an emailed statement, the BOC said the two shipments — consigned to E. Austero Merchandising —  were seized on Monday, June 28.

Examination at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) found that the agricultural goods were concealed in ice cream containers, as these were subjected to non-intrusive and full examination.

The BOC has since issued a warrant of seizure and detention against the shipment for violation of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

“As the importation of food items remains a priority to ensure food security in the country, MICP remains committed to curb smuggling of unsafe food items,” the BOC said.

Under Philippine laws, importers should have the necessary permits from both the BOC and the Department of Agriculture (DA).

The BOC is mandated to assess and collect customs revenues from imported goods and exercise border control to prevent the entry of smuggled goods. — Jon Viktor D. Cabuenas/RSJ, GMA News