P27M worth of smuggled sugar seized in Manila

Some P27 million worth of alleged smuggled sugar from China were seized by the Department of Agriculture (DA) in a series of inspections at the Manila International Container Port (MICP).

A report by Allan Gatus on Dobol B TV on Friday said the inspections were conducted following a tip received by the office of DA Assistant Secretary James Layug.

Three of the 11 container vans were originally declared to contain motorcycle spare parts, but authorities, during an inspection on February 6, found sacks of sugar instead.

Aside from the 11, six more container vans are currently undergoing inspection, the report said, citing Layug.

The inspections were conducted in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Plant Industry and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

The consignee of the shipment is facing complaint for violation of Food Safety Act of 2013 and Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016. —KBK, GMA Integrated News