PCG detains 3 for misdeclared cargo of P30-M cash

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) is investigating three men caught transporting an undeclared amount of around P30 million on board a ship in Cagayan de Oro port bound for Cebu last Sunday.

PCG spokesman Commander Armand Balilo yesterday said that based on reports from the PCG Northern Mindanao District, the three men, who claimed to be working for a private bank, were held for tactical interrogation.

Balilo said they were moving the money without coordinating with the PCG in the area.

“The three men, who are reportedly bank employees, were invited for questioning and for further investigation. We want to know where the money came from. Why were they transporting on a Sunday and why did they not coordinate with our Coast Guard personnel in the area,” he added.

The PCG is still verifying the men’s story with the bank they claim to be affiliated with. He did not disclose the name of the bank.

“We just want to make sure that the money is not being used for illegal activities. If after the investigation it would show that they did not violate any law, then they would be released.

“We are conducting an investigation to validate their actions, as well as the actions of their company… What is important here is that we exercise precaution in handling this kind of situation,” the PCG official said.

Initial reports reaching headquarters revealed that the three individuals were about to board a Trans Asia ship leaving Cagayan de Oro for Cebu when accosted.

The estimated P30 million was placed inside four styrofoam boxes and reportedly declared to be documents.

“PCG Northern Mindanao District head Capt. Leovigildo Panopio said they were told that the styrofoam contained documents and it was only later on that they found out that it was carrying money,” he added.