BOC intercepts shipment of millipedes

MANILA, Philippines — Eight shipping containers with live millipedes were intercepted at a warehouse in Pasay City, the Bureau of Customs – Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-Naia) said on Monday.

The container supposedly bound for the United Kingdom on November 19 was declared as “assorted consumer goods,” such as powdered juice, face masks, instant noodles, delicacies, and photo frames, among others, the BOC reported

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During the X-ray screening, “irregularities” were observed, and further inspection revealed the live millipedes, the BOC said.

The millipedes have since been turned over to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for proper handling and disposition.

According to the BOC, the incident violates the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, particularly for misdeclaration and unlawful exportation.

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Following this, BOC District Collector Atty. Yasmin Mapa highlighted the importance of complying with Customs requirements, adding that the agency will continue to “ensure that our outbound cargo facilities are not exploited for illicit activities involving wildlife or other regulated commodities.”

Similarly, BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno vowed that the agency is “committed to enforcing customs laws and preventing the unauthorized transport of regulated or prohibited items.” /gsg