BOC files PHP18-M smuggling raps vs tires, jewelry importers

Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Alberto Lina (Photo courtesy of the Bureau of Customs)

MANILA—The Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Friday filed before the Department of Justice (DOJ) a total of PHP18 million smuggling cases against the importers of jewelry and used tires which were apprehended at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) and Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

In a press conference, BOC Commissioner Alberto Lina said that they charged Jubannie B. Berces, general manager and several John and Jane Does of Respawnable Enterprises, with office located in Binondo, Manila for unlawful importation of 2×40-footer container van shipment said to contain “tires” with an approximate aggregate value of PHP3 million.

Charges were also filed against Rosemarie G. Clemente, the owner of the pieces of jewelry located in Tandang Sora, Quezon City.

Clemente brought in 259 pieces of assorted pieces of jewelry with an estimated aggregate value of PHP15 million.

These include 55 pieces of rings, 116 pieces of earrings, 18 pieces of bracelets, 40 pieces of necklace and 30 pieces of pendants.

Clemente arrived in the Philippines from Hong Kong via Tiger Airways flight no. DG-7833 which arrived at the NAIA Terminal 3 on Sept. 15, 2015.

All the respondents were charged for violation of Section 3601 in relation to Sections 2503 and 2530 of the Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines (TCCP).

“Travelers who bring in commercial goods and importers doing unlawful importation will be not be tolerated by the BOC as they harm legitimate traders which can bring further negative effect on our economy if neglected,” Lina said.