Customs seizes P15M worth of PPEs suspected to be smuggled

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has seized P15-million worth of personal protective equipment (PPE) suspected to have illegally entered the Philippines.

According to the BOC, the shipments -- various PPE such as gloves, facemasks, and goggles -- were seized from three shops along Rizal Avenue in Sta. Cruz, Manila on Tuesday, March 31, 2020.

"The said shipments were suspected to be misdeclared as general merchandise when imported into the country. Smuggled PPE may pose a health risk to users since such items may not comply with the safety standards set by the government rendering them not fit for human utilization," it said.

The BOC said store owners are given 15 days to present the necessary documents to prove that the items were legally imported, else face charges of smuggling.

"Although the Bureau is focused in expediting the importation of PPE and other medical supplies badly needed to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the agency is also committed in ensuring that goods are within acceptable standards and are safe for the public use," it said. — Jon Viktor D. Cabuenas/RSJ, GMA News