Anti-graft executive linked to smuggling

MANILA, Philippines - A Bureau of Customs (BOC) official tasked to fight corruption has been accused of demanding the release of P10 million worth of counterfeit goods.

BOC Commissioner Angelito Alvarez said he would report the case against Ruben Frugoso, an official of the Revenue Integrity Protection System, to Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima. The RIPS investigates allegations of corruption in the Department of Finance and its attached agencies.

Marlon Agaceta, chief of staff of district collector Rogel Gatchalian at the Port of Manila, reportedly filed charges of corruption, attempted corruption of a public official and grave threats against Frugoso before the Department of Justice.

Gatchalian said Frugoso allegedly threatened Agaceta that if the port did not release the shipment, they would be criticized in the media. “True enough, we were hit,” he said.

Gatchalian said Frugoso reportedly wanted three 40-foot shipping containers that held footwear, steel bars, plastic resin, Christmas decor, car parts and accessories, mag wheels, home and office furniture, Chinese ham and bags of manganese stones.

The shipment arrived last Nov. 8. It was reportedly consigned to RDCM Enterprises, which is registered in the name of Rodolfo de la Cruz Martinez, and processed by licensed customs broker Daisy Angeles.