MANILA, Philippines — Authorities have seized 39,146.1 liters of illegally sourced fuel worth an estimated P2.6 million from three gasoline stations in the Bicol Region, the  Bureau of Customs (BOC) said.

Random field testing conducted by the BOC’s Enforcement and Security Service (ESS), in coordination with Société Générale de Surveillance Philippines, found that the fuel failed to meet the required compliance threshold for government fuel marking, indicating it was untaxed and illegally withdrawn.

Following the discovery, the BOC issued Warrants of Seizure and Detention against the fuel, citing violations of the DOF-BIR-BOC Joint Circular No. 001-2021 and Section 148-A of Republic Act No. 8424, or the National Internal Revenue Code, as amended by the TRAIN Law.

“These findings highlight the persistent challenges we face in enforcing fuel regulations. It is evident that some operators continue to defy compliance measures,” said District Collector Guillermo Pedro Francia IV.

“However, we are determined to identify and penalize those who are non-compliant as these violations threaten revenue collection and undermine lawful competition,” Francia added.

The BOC’s Enforcement Group said it remains vigilant against fuel smuggling, which threatens market integrity and deprives the government of crucial tax revenues. It urged the public to report suspicious activities at fuel stations to help curb the illegal fuel trade.