Customs seizes P35.4-M smuggled agri products

THE Bureau of Customs (BoC) seized P35.4 million worth of smuggled agricultural products in cold storage in Nueva Ecija.

In a statement on Monday, the BoC said that it discovered various imported agricultural products from Holland and China.

The authorities found 6,088 bags of small yellow onions from Holland, while 1,080 bags of big yellow onions, 3,780 bags of big red onions, and 12,350 bags of garlic were from China.

A warrant of seizure and detention was issued on May 21, while the National Bureau of Investigation is conducting an investigation against the importer and other liable parties for violations of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act.

“The BoC is also carrying out an internal investigation to determine whether any personnel may have been involved in the unlawful importation and movement of the seized goods,” it said.

BoC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said the agency “will continue to pursue those who undermine legitimate trade and exploit our agricultural industry.” — Justine Irish D. Tabile