MANILA — Bureau of Customs officials led by Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno confiscated a shipment worth PHP235 million containing smuggled cigarettes arriving from the United Arab Emirates at Batangas Port on Friday.
The shipment comprised 637 master cases of MAC Super Slim Ice Cool Blast Cigarettes, which were found without the required graphic health warnings mandated by law and missing the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) tax stamps, in violation of the National Internal Revenue Code.
Following the inspection, District Collector Carmelita Talusan issued a warrant of seizure and detention under Sections 117 and 1113 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).
Nepomuceno warned that BOC will continue its strict crackdown on illegal tobacco trade. “Our borders will not be a gateway for illicit goods. Lawbreakers will face serious consequences,” he said.
From the start of the year to early March, authorities have intercepted 127 shipments, seizing around PHP2 billion in illicit cigarettes nationwide. The BOC is actively working with law enforcement agencies to ensure a coordinated approach against the illegal tobacco industry, safeguarding both public health and lawful businesses.
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