Photo by: Bureau of Customs
MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs (BOC), led by Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno, has intercepted two shipments of misdeclared firecrackers worth an estimated ₱40 million at the Manila International Container Port (MICP), reinforcing the agency’s intensified campaign against smuggling and the illegal importation of prohibited goods.
The two shipments, both originating from China and valued at approximately ₱20 million each, were flagged by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) following derogatory intelligence reports indicating that the containers concealed fireworks and firecrackers. One shipment had been declared as “shelves” and was later voluntarily abandoned by the consignee, while the other was falsely declared as “ceramic cups.”
During the mandatory physical examination conducted upon the shipments’ arrival at the MICP, Customs examiners discovered assorted fireworks and firecrackers hidden inside the containers, confirming the intelligence reports.
Commissioner Nepomuceno said the successful interception demonstrates the effectiveness of the Bureau’s enhanced screening and intelligence operations.
“Kung makikita natin, epektibo ang screening process natin. Iba’t ibang klaseng kontrabando ang nahaharang natin, kaya sana itigil na ng mga smugglers ang illegal na importasyon. Mauubos lang ang puhunan niyo,” Nepomuceno said.
Photo by: Bureau of Customs
The importation of finished firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices is prohibited under Republic Act No. 7183 and its Implementing Rules and Regulations, making the shipments subject to seizure and forfeiture.
The confiscated firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices will undergo the necessary legal and administrative processes before being turned over to the appropriate government agencies for case filing and eventual disposal in accordance with existing laws and regulations.
The BOC–Manila International Container Port, under the leadership of District Collector Atty. Geoffrey K. De Vera IV, continues to strengthen enforcement measures against the entry of prohibited and misdeclared goods through enhanced intelligence gathering, risk profiling, and cargo inspection.
The Bureau said the latest seizure supports the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to intensify the government’s whole-of-nation campaign against smuggling and economic sabotage. Customs officials vowed to further strengthen border protection efforts and pursue individuals and organizations involved in illicit trade to safeguard public safety, legitimate businesses, and government revenues.