Seized smuggled goods reach P25.5B in the first quarter
INQUIRER file photo
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Friday reported a significant increase in the value of smuggled goods seized in the Philippines during the first three months of the year, totaling P25.581 billion.
From January to March 29, the BOC said that its Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) conducted 243 successful operations that led to a 39.59-percent surge in the value of confiscated illicit goods.
“For nearly four decades, our Enforcement and Security Service has stood as our first line of defense, serving as the enforcement arm of the Bureau of Customs,” Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said in a statement.
“As someone who once served as a special agent, I understand the weight and demands of this role, both within our institution and beyond its walls,” he added.
The ESS’ strict border checks resulted in the seizure of P85.167 billion worth of smuggled goods in 2024.
Money laundering ‘gray” list
The BOC touted the ESS’ crucial role in helping the Philippines get removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Gray List.
Also, the BOC said the ESS enforced strict measures against money laundering and terrorism financing.
This led to the seizure of an estimated P131.8 million in undeclared currencies entering and exiting the country.
In addition, the ESS also tracked the importation of 19.95 billion liters of fuel, ensuring adherence to tax laws and contributing P242.36 billion in duties and taxes.
The ESS also intercepted illegal drugs valued at P2.05 billion, leading to 164 cases being referred for prosecution under the Bureau’s BATAS (BOC’s Action Team Against Smugglers’) program.
