The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has seized more than P66 million worth of smuggled fuel and shabu in two separate operations in Pangasinan and Mandaluyong City.
The BOC, in cooperation with Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the Philippine Navy (PN), and the Philippine National Police (PNP) Maritime Group seized an estimated 1,350 liters of smuggled diesel fuel worth P54 Million from the vessel “MV Veronica-1” at the sub-port of Sual in Pangasinan.
The Port of San Fernando ordered the immediate seizure of the smuggled diesel and the vessel in compliance with Customs laws, rules, and regulations.
“This success could not have been possible without the assistance and support of our Intelligence Group and Enforcement Group, who provided valuable inputs and guidance that led to the seizure of the vessel and smuggled fuel,” said Port of San Fernando district collector Arsenia Ilagan.
Meanwhile, Customs agents apprehended the claimant of a shipment containing 1,808 grams of shabu worth P12.4 million in Mandaluyong City.
The BOC discovered the illegal drugs during physical examination of a shipment from California, USA, said to contain “dolls toys, plush stuff animal, toy car”.
The shipment was subjected to usual K9 sniffing and x-ray scanning procedures and was immediately subjected to physical examination which led to the discovery of two cans of Mr. Espresso premium coffee containing white crystalline substances weighing 1,808 grams.
Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio lauded the BOC operatives for their successful operation against smuggling of and illegal drugs, saying “this achievement is a testament to our unwavering commitment to securing our borders and protecting our economy from the adverse effects of smuggling.”