-
Bureau of Customs agents confiscated an estimated P841 million in imitation perfumes and lotions during a raid at a warehouse in Valenzuela
-
The warehouse operators face potential charges for violating the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines and the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act
-
While no immediate arrests were made, Customs commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno commended the Manila International Container Port and partner agencies as investigations into the warehouse’s ownership and the origin of the goods continue
Bureau of Customs (BOC) operatives seized an estimated P841 million worth of suspected counterfeit products during a raid on a warehouse in Valenzuela, the agency announced Thursday.
The joint operation with other law enforcement agencies, conducted on April 10 following surveillance by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), uncovered 1,460 boxes of perfumes and 364 boxes of lotions.
The goods bore the markings of several international brands, including Jo Malone, Versace, and Cetaphil.
Authorities acted on an intelligence report detailing the alleged storage of illicit items at the facility. Operatives served a Letter of Authority to gain entry to the property, which has since been sealed and secured by Customs personnel and the Philippine Coast Guard pending further investigation.
The BOC issued a Warrant of Seizure and Detention on April 28.
According to agency documents, the operators of the warehouse face potential charges for violating Republic Act No. 8293, also known as the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines. Specifically, authorities are citing Section 118 (F) regarding infringing goods, alongside Section 1113 on property subject to seizure and forfeiture under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
BOC commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno credited the Manila International Container Port district office and partner enforcement agencies for coordinating the intelligence-driven operation.
No arrests were immediately announced, and the investigation into the ownership of the warehouse and the source of the goods remains ongoing.
