Smuggling raps filed vs importer of P15-M 'ukay-ukay'

MANILA, Philippines - The Bureau of Customs on Thursday filed a smuggling case before the Department of Justice against an importer and his broker after seizing P15 million worth of used clothing.

Blue Shadow Trading owner Rommel Marasigan and broker Mel Banas were charged for violating the Tariffs and Customs Code that bans used garments or "ukay-ukay" imports.

The law states that used textiles and rags may not be commercially bought from other countries to "safeguard the health ... and maintain the dignity of the nation."

Customs Commissioner Rozzano "Ruffy" Biazon said officials seized the items from 40-footer container vans from Hong Kong at the Manila Port area last June 10.

The used clothing shipment was declared as notebooks, binders, tailor shop accessories and trolley bags to circumvent the Tarrifs Code, he said.

"We will not allow Filipinos' health to be compromised by the illegal activities of irresponsible and profit driven traders and their cohorts in government," Biazon said, vowing to pursue the case.