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The crew members of two fuel tankers involved in an illegal fuel transfer scheme are facing criminal charges
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The Navotas City Prosecutor’s Office found evidence to file charges under Section 265-A of the National Internal Revenue Code, as amended by the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law
Crew members of two fuel tankers involved in an illegal fuel transfer in Navotas are facing criminal charges, the Bureau of Customs said in a statement.
In a seven-page inquest resolution dated September 21, 2024, the Navotas City Prosecutor’s Office found prima facie evidence to file charges against 23 crew members of MT Tritrust and MT Mega Ensoleilee for transferring smuggled, unmarked fuel in commercial quantities — locally referred to as the “paihi” system — at Navotas fish port.
The crew violated Section 265-A of the National Internal Revenue Code, as amended by the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law, which carries fines of P2.5 million to P10 million and possible revocation of business licenses.
The BOC apprehended MT Tritrust and Mega Ensoleilee while transporting 320,463 liters and 39,884 liters of unmarked fuel, respectively, valued at over P20 million. The vessels have since been impounded.
READ: BOC impounds ships over illegal fuel transfer
BOC Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service director Verne Enciso and Intelligence Group deputy commissioner Juvymax Uy assured the public the BOC will continue its aggressive campaign against fuel smuggling and ensure those involved face prosecution.
“We’ve been monitoring these illegal activities for some time now and gathered the needed information not only to catch these perpetrators but to make sure that appropriate cases are filed against them. We are coordinating with other relevant agencies to stop those involved in this modus,” Enciso said.
Additional investigations are underway to potentially charge the owners and managers of the fuel tankers under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act for unlawful importation.
“A subpoena will be issued to the Securities and Exchange Commission to submit the latest GIS, or general information sheet, of the subject company,” Uy said.
