BoC, PCG stop robbery of seized fake products

Elements of combined operatives of the Bureau of Customs and Philippine Coast Guard stopped the theft of Customs-seized goods in a warehouse in Pasay City on Thursday night, resulting in the arrest of 67 Filipinos and 10 Chinese nationals.

According to the BoC, the warehouse was previously sealed and padlocked during an operation against intellectual property rights infringing goods, specifically clothing apparel, footwear, and bags.

BOC-Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service Director Verne Enciso said the operation was augmented by the CIIS-Manila International Container Port.

"We received information from a well-placed asset that there was an ongoing theft in a Pasay warehouse we have previously sealed and padlocked. This warehouse had been subjected previously to a Letter of Authority," he furthered.

Upon receiving information, a team from the BOC's Intellectual Property Rights Division immediately proceeded to 112 M. Acosta St., Barangay 77, Pasay City to interdict the illegal activities.

During the operation, more or less 67 Filipinos and 10 Chinese nationals were caught breaking the BOC seal and were seen carrying the forfeited illicit goods from the upper floors down to the ground floor.

A close truck van (L300) with plate number TNP 882 was also spotted being loaded with the forfeited goods.

Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence Juvymax Uy assured that all forfeited items were accounted for through a verification conducted on the spot.

"The success of each operation, including seeing them through the legal proceedings, is crucial to the health of the Philippine industry. These operations show the seriousness of our work and send the right message to businesses that want to invest here," he said.

"It is not lost on us that what we do here has a direct impact on local businesses, local employment, and the attractiveness of the Philippines as an investment destination," Uy added.