Customs intercepts P15M worth of used cellphones, accessories at NAIA

The Bureau of Customs on Saturday said it has intercepted at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport a shipment of used cellphones and accessories worth P15 million.

The intercepted goods were 825 used smartphones, lithium batteries and phone accessories from Korea.

Bureau of Customs officials and personnel present on Saturday, August 24, 2019, 825 used smartphones, lithium batteries and phone accessories worth P15 million intercepted at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Bureau of Customs

The BOC said the shipment is one of two shipments registered to one consignee.

The National Telecommunications Commission said it does not issue permits for the importation of secondhand cellphones and accessories unless these are for personal use or for gifts to relatives.

The NTC also added importation of such items for commercial use or in large quantities will affect adversely the interests of legitimate manufacturers.

It also warned the public of the safety and security risks from the used smartphones and accessories.

Samsung Philippines Corporation lauded the BOC-NAIA for intercepting the shipment and advised the public to be vigilant when buying Samsung devices. —KG, GMA News