THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Thursday, October 26, 2023, deterred the attempted theft of Customs-seized goods in a Pasay warehouse and arrested 67 Filipinos and 10 Chinese nationals.

The warehouse was previously sealed and padlocked during a BOC operation against intellectual property rights (IPR) infringing goods, specifically clothing apparel, footware, and bags.

BOC-Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) Director Verne Enciso said the operation was augmented by the CIIS-Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP).

“We received information from a well-placed asset that there was an ongoing theft in a Pasay warehouse we have previously sealed and padlocked. This warehouse had been subjected previously to a Letter of Authority (LOA),” he furthered.

Upon receiving information, a team from the BOC’s Intellectual Property Rights Division (IPRD) immediately proceeded to 112 M. Acosta St., Barangay 77, Pasay City to interdic the illegal activities.

During the operation, more or less 67 Filipinos and 10 Chinese nationals were caught breaking the BOC seal and were seen carrying the forfeited illicit goods from the upper floors down to the ground floor.

A truck van (L300) with plate number TNP 882 was also spotted being loaded with the forfeited goods.

Commissioner Bien Rubio said the suspects were immediately instructed to stop the activity, and would soon undergo inquest proceedings.

“This operation only goes to show the extent of the BOC’s mandate. More than stopping these illegal activities and seizing contraband products, we must also be at the forefront of ensuring that these seized items will remain in our custody until the cases are done and we are instructed by the proper courts on how to go about disposing or liquidating them,” he explained.

Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence Juvymax Uy assured that all forfeited items were accounted for through a verification conducted on the spot.

“The success of each operation, including seeing them through the legal proceedings, is crucial to the health of the Philippine industry. These operations show the seriousness of our work and send the right message to businesses that want to invest here,” he said.

“It is not lost on us that what we do here has a direct impact on local businesses, local employment, and the attractiveness of the Philippines as an investment destination,” Uy added.

This latest operation was coordinated with the Enforcement and Security Service-Quick Reaction Team (ESS-QRT), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Bureau Action Team Against Smuggling (BATAS), Public Information and Assistance Division (PIAD), and the local barangay.

Shortly after the operation, BATAS representative and lawyer Katrina Pearl R. Chua arrived at the area.