BOC seizes P25-M smuggled cigarettes, condiments

MANILA, Philippines - The Bureau of Customs (BOC) confiscated Friday P25 million worth of cigarettes and condiments allegedly smuggled from China.

In a statement, the BOC said its agents seized 272 boxes that contained 100 reams of Marlboro cigarettes per box; a box with 50 reams of Marlboro cigarettes; 29 boxes that held 50 reams of Marlboro cigarettes per box; 10 boxes of Winston cigarettes; and 11 boxes that contained 50 reams of Fortune cigarettes per box.

The agency also confiscated 432 Knorr Sinigang Mix and 23 boxes of Maggi Magic Sarap. Each box reportedly contained 150 sachets.

BOC Commissioner Rufino Biazon said the alleged smuggled goods were found in two storage areas in Tondo, Manila, whose owners failed to present proof of payment of duties and taxes.

According to the BOC, there had been speculation that with the imposition of high taxes, smuggling syndicates would try to illegally bring cigarettes into the country and sell them at cheaper price.

Republic Act 10351, the sin tax law, took effect on Jan. 1, imposing higher excise taxes on tobacco and alcohol products in a bid to increase the government’s revenues while discouraging the heavy consumption of cigarettes, beer, liquor, wine, and other tobacco and alcohol products.