P121 million smuggled cigarettes seized in Subic

SUBIC Bay Freeport, Philippines — Smuggled cigarettes with an estimated value of P121 million have been seized by agents of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) at this port.

The cigarettes, loaded in four refrigerator shipping containers, arrived at the Port of Subic on Aug. 22 from China and Hong Kong.

The shipments were declared as frozen goods and toys to mislead authorities, the BOC said.

“The importers intentionally declared the shipments as frozen goods because it is general knowledge that cigarettes cannot be stored in high-moisture containers like reefer vans,” the bureau said.

A warrant for the seizure and detention was issued against the shipment.

The filing of criminal charges was recommended against the smugglers.