Customs men seize 43 container vans of smuggled goods in Davao

MANILA, Philippines—Bureau of Customs agents led by deputy commissioner for intelligence Danilo Lim seized on Thursday 43 container vans containing P45 million worth of smuggled goods at the port of Davao as part of its nationwide drive against “hot containers.”

It was the second time that Lim personally supervised the opening of seized containers in the Davao port since President Benigno Aquino III appointed him as customs intelligence chief.

The customs operatives seized 43 container vans, 20 of which contained rice that were declared as powdered barytes, which are minerals used in oil and gas drilling. Another 20 reefer-type containers contained onions that were declared as pastry ingredients.

The remaining containers contained used clothes (ukay-ukay) and seven automobiles declared as parts.

Lim said the total estimated value of apprehended goods was more than P 45 million.

“Last week I was here to personally oversee the seizure of P21M worth of smuggled rice and other goods. I received reports that certain individuals involved in shady deals were agitated by our initiative, even going to the point of challenging our determination. Well, we are back. And we are here again to once more accost their illegal goods,” Lim said in a statement.

Lim warned that groups and individuals involved in smuggling would be punished severely.

“To those who stubbornly continue with their illegal activities, I warn you, we will not pull our punches in the fight against smuggling and corruption in the bureau. Do not test our resolve,” the former general said.

Lim earlier said he hoped to create a “chilling effect” to immediately disrupt the “business as usual” operations of big-time smugglers.