P94.075-M SMUGGLED VAPE PRODUCTS, MOTOR PARTS SEIZED IN MANILA, LAGUNA

A SERIES of crackdown operations by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) resulted in the confiscation of some P94.075 million worth of vape products, motor parts, and accessories in different facilities in Manila and Laguna.

A composite team consisting of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service – Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP), Enforcement and Security Service-MICP, representatives from the Bureau’s Action Team Against Smugglers, the Philippine Coast Guard – Task Force Aduana. barangay officials and the Philippine National Police launched the operations.

During the inspection, authorities discovered disposable vapes valued at approximately P12.6 million in a vape shop in San Pedro, Laguna.

A separate operation in Quiapo, Manila, led to the seizure of assorted imported vape devices, vape pods, and disposable vapes worth around P6.475 million.

Also confiscated were motorcycle parts and accessories valued at around P75 million.

“These crackdowns were conducted in response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify our anti-smuggling efforts against the illicit trade of tobacco and vape products,” said BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio.

“Our goal is to protect consumers and the public from the dangers of these illegal substances, which can pose significant health risks and undermine public safety,” he said.

“The confiscation of the P75 million worth of motorcycle parts and accessories is also noteworthy as it demonstrates our ongoing commitment in protecting legitimate businesses in the country,” the BOC Commissioner added.