Customs seizes P6 million white onions

MANILA, Philippines — White onions valued at P6 million imported from China were confiscated by the Bureau of Customs at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) on Tuesday as part of the BOC’s drive against smuggling of agricultural products.

In a statement, Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero said the shipment was consigned to Silverpop Dry Goods Trading.

“We are confident of the kind of work that we do, especially when it comes to stopping the smuggling of agricultural products. We take it very seriously. That is why we take exception to allegations that the agency is doing less than a stellar performance in ending agricultural smuggling,” he said.

Guerrero and BOC Deputy Commissioner for intelligence Raniel Ramiro were among the 22 officials tagged in agricultural smuggling based on a report submitted to the Senate.

According to the BOC, the white onions were declared as steamed buns from China.

“We continue to man our borders against illegal shipments of agricultural products. This is a continuous effort and we will not rest until we put an end to smugglers’ activities,” Ramiro said.

MICP district collector Romeo Allan Rosales said charges of violation of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act would be filed against those responsible for the smuggling of white onions.