P12-M fake cigarettes seized in Davao

MANILA, Philippines – At least P12.7 million worth of fake cigarettes have been seized in a warehouse in Davao City, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) said yesterday.

The seizure stemmed from a tip about the presence of the cigarettes in the warehouse of the HBTT Marketing (HBTT), BOC-Enforcement Group deputy commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said.

The raid, which was conducted on Dec. 3, was based on a warrant issued against the HBTT for non-payment of duties and taxes.

A test conducted on the cigarette samples showed the items were fake.

Nepomuceno said the fake cigarettes are usually sold in retail stores at a lower price.