BOC seizes P841 million counterfeit goods

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) recently intercepted P841 million worth of counterfeit goods in a warehouse in Valenzuela City.

The BOC conducted the operation on April 10 after receiving information about the storage of fake goods in Valenzuela.

Upon receipt of the intelligence report, an enforcement team led by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) conducted surveillance and on-site validation.

Based on initial inventory, 1,460 boxes of perfumes and 364 boxes of lotions bearing markings of international brands, such as Jo Malone, Versace and Cetaphil, were seized.

The warehouse was sealed and secured by Customs personnel with the assistance of the Philippine Coast Guard.

A warrant of seizure and detention has been issued for the counterfeit goods.

The BOC said unlawful activities distort fair competition, adding that enforcement efforts remain focused on protecting legitimate trade and disrupting illicit supply chains.

Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno lauded district collector Geoffrey de Vera of the Manila International Container Port and the CIIS-MICP for their coordinated efforts.

Nepomuceno emphasized the effectiveness of intelligence-driven operations in identifying and neutralizing illicit trade activities and reaffirmed the BOC’s commitment to sustained border protection and proactive enforcement against smuggling.