Customs to file smuggling raps vs 3 brokerage firms

MANILA, Philippines - Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Ruffy Biazon has disclosed that the bureau is set to file smuggling charges against three brokerage firms before the Department of Justice, bringing to 50 the number of cases filed under the Run After the Smugglers (RATS) program.

He said the brokerage companies attempted to smuggle a second-hand Porsche Boxter S, used clothing, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products and playing cards.

According to Biazon, there is an existing ban on the importation of second-hand vehicles and used clothing.

“The banning of importation of used clothing aims to protect the Filipinos from the health risks posed by the entry of used clothing in the local market,’’ he told reporters.

“We will strictly implement the law with no let-up to assure the safety of the Filipinos and to protect the local business community,’’ Biazon added.

BOC intelligence division chief Eric Albano estimated the value of the illegal shipments made by the brokerage firms at P9.3 million.

Albano said that importation of used vehicles is prohibited under Executive Order No. 156 while used clothing is banned under Republic Act 4653.

He said the Porsche, PV products and playing cards will be auctioned while the used clothing will be given to the Department of Social and Welfare and Development for proper disposition.