Customs Condemns Five Containers of Smuggled Agricultural Products
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) recently condemned five containers of smuggled agricultural products at the Port of Subic on August 15, officials reported. This decisive action highlights the agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health and enforcing importation laws.
The seized shipments contained various frozen meats, fish, preserved fruits, vegetables, and other perishable goods. All these items were disposed of through dumping after being declared unfit for human consumption due to the absence of necessary phytosanitary certification.
Lack of Certification Renders Goods Unsafe
According to local authorities, the seized agricultural products violated the Rules on Importation under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act. Without phytosanitary certification, these goods posed serious health risks and were classified as hazardous. Community members noted that such violations undermine food safety and consumer protection efforts nationwide.
Legal Framework Supports Condemnation
Customs Memorandum Order No. 24-2021 mandates the condemnation of illegally imported goods to protect consumers from unregulated and potentially harmful products. Officials emphasized that this legal framework empowers the BOC to act swiftly against smuggling activities that threaten public welfare.
BOC’s Ongoing Fight Against Smuggling
“Smuggled agricultural products pose serious risks, and we will continue to act decisively against these threats,” BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said. Sources revealed that the agency remains vigilant in monitoring ports and intercepting illegal shipments to uphold food safety and national security.
These recent actions demonstrate the Bureau of Customs’ unwavering dedication to combat smuggling and protect Filipino consumers from unsafe products.
For more news and updates on smuggled agricultural products, visit Filipinokami.com.
