P17 million fake cigarettes seized

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) confiscated yesterday at the Port of Manila (POM) an estimated P17.38 million worth of fake cigarettes.

The “hot” shipment arrived from China on May 22 and was consigned to Mvetisery Industrial Supply, the BOC said.

The cargo was placed on hold after the POM received “derogatory information” from the bureau’s Enforcement Group on May 27.

Upon physical examination of the items, a Customs examiner assessed total duties and taxes amounting to P9.96 million. 

The BOC said charges of violating the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act would be filed against those behind the shipment.