Customs files rap vs broker who misdeclared luxury cars shipment

The Bureau of Customs, through its Bureau Action Team Against Smugglers (BATAS) under the Legal Service, has filed smuggling complaint before the Department of Justice against a consignee/broker for misdeclaring P7.8 million worth of luxury cars.

Commissioner Isidro Lapeña said the criminal complaint was filed against Juljerjac Trading, specifically Julius D. Catalig, its owner; and Rodrigo de Guzman, the customs broker who processed the shipment. They are specifically facing a complaint for violation of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.

Juljerjac’s shipment, according to Lawyer Yasser Ismail Abbas, director of the Legal Service and BATAS executive director, was seized due to the misdeclared used black Mercedes Benz, used white Mercedez Benz, wheel, and tires on September 13.

Abbas said the shipment was declared as auto parts.

“The strong evidence of misdeclaration and unlawful importation warrants the filing of criminal cases against the respondents,” Lapeña said. /je