BOC reports P545 million worth of smuggled agricultural products so far this year

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Thursday reported that it has intercepted at least P545.06 million worth of smuggled agricultural products from January to September 2021.

In a statement, the BOC said the top three commodities seized were rice amounting to P206.80 million, onions amounting to P190.48 million, and garlic amounting to P55 million.

“Data from the Bureau's Action Team Against Smugglers (BATAS) of the Legal Service show that 14 criminal cases involving 41 individuals and customs brokers were filed before the Department of Justice (DOJ) for the unlawful importation of agricultural products valued at around Php 85.2 million,” the BOC said.

“[Ten] administrative cases before the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) were filed against customs brokers involved in the said unlawful acts,” it added.

Meanwhile, at least two BOC registered importers were revoked their accreditation, while 23 were suspended due to issuance of Warrant of Seizure and Detention against their shipments of agricultural products.

The agency also expressed its commitment to impose stricter measures against smuggling of agricultural products to strengthen the country's borders. — Richa Noriega/BM, GMA News