Smuggled fake cigarettes intercepted by Bureau of Customs at the Port of Subic. Image from BOC-Subic.
MANILA, Philippines — Two shipments of smuggled cigarettes worth P66.2 million were intercepted by agents of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in the Port of Subic last May 28.
A statement from BOC-Port of Subic said that on May 19, 2021, a forty-footer container said to contain footwear and was consigned to RNRS Trading arrived at the Port of Subic.
On the same day, another 1×40 shipment of cartons film (stretch) consigned to Heybronze Non-Specialized Wholesale Trading arrived at the port.
Both shipments underwent physical examination as witnessed by the representatives from JTI and PMFTC which yielded to the discovery of various fake cigarettes bearing the brands Marvels Menthol, Marvels Filter, Two Moon Filter, Two Moon Menthol, Fort Menthol 100’s, Mighty Menthol, Champion and Jackpot.
Warrants of Seizure and Detention were issued on May 28, 2021 against the abovementioned shipments for violation of the National Tobacco Administration (NTA) Memorandum Circular No. 03, series of 2004; NTA Board Resolution No. 079-2005; Section 155 of R.A. 8293 (Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines); and Section 1400 in relation to Section 1113 (f) of Republic Act No. 10863 otherwise known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).
“Our continued efforts to curb smuggling and enhanced border security together with our partner agencies are definitely working,” said District Collector Maritess Martin.