By: Dante M. Salvaña
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — The Bureau of Customs (BOC)–Port of Subic has commenced the destruction of more than ₱430 million worth of abandoned smuggled cigarettes, reinforcing its campaign against illicit trade and its commitment to protecting legitimate businesses and government revenue.
The condemned shipments, consisting of 10 abandoned 40-foot container vans loaded with assorted cigarette brands, were declared abandoned in 2023 pursuant to Section 1129(b) of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA). The destruction is being carried out at Legacy 88 Recyclable Materials Collection Services in Santa Maria, Bulacan.
The operation is being undertaken in compliance with the directive of Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno and under the supervision of Port of Subic District Collector Atty. Genefiel D. Lagmay to ensure that the forfeited goods are permanently removed from circulation.
BOC said the first phase of the condemnation covers three container vans, with the agency currently on the third day of disposal operations. The contraband is being destroyed through shredding and pyrolysis, an environmentally compliant process that prevents the cigarettes from re-entering the domestic market.
“The Bureau remains firm in its mandate to prevent forfeited and smuggled goods from finding their way back into commerce,” Lagmay said. “This condemnation underscores our commitment to enforcing customs laws, protecting public interest, and maintaining a fair and competitive business environment for legitimate traders.”
The Port of Subic noted that the destruction of the shipments forms part of its intensified enforcement measures against smuggling and other customs violations. By ensuring the proper disposition of abandoned and forfeited goods, the Bureau aims to safeguard lawful trade, preserve government revenues, and strengthen confidence in the country’s customs regulatory framework.
The BOC reaffirmed that it will continue to pursue decisive enforcement actions against illicit trade while promoting transparency, accountability, and efficient customs administration in support of national economic development.