Used clothing donations from abroad to be released directly to DSWD

The Philippines' Bureau of Customs (BOC) was instructed to release foreign donations of used clothing directly to the social welfare department to avoid violating a law prohibiting secondhand clothing imports. Instructions were issued by Finance Secretary Margarito B. Teves, a text message sent to GMANews.TV said. The bureau is currently coordinating with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) "for the immediate release of used clothes donation from international institutions for storm Ondoy's victims," the text message said. International organizations were also advised to donate used clothes directly to the DSWD as existing laws prohibit the importation of used clothes by the Philippines, it added. Enacted in June 1966, Republic Act 4653 prohibits "the commercial importation of textile articles commonly known as used clothing and rags." Violations carry a penalty of anywhere from P200 to P20,000 and imprisonment of net less than two years nor more than five years. - GMANews.TV