The Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Clark has intercepted ₱8.244 million worth of misdeclared vape products from China, reinforcing its campaign against smuggling and illicit trade.

Customs personnel acted on derogatory information from the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) and subjected the shipment—falsely declared as non-commercial items such as shoes and clothes—to x-ray scanning and a 100 percent physical examination on August 11.

The inspection uncovered 69 boxes containing 20,610 pieces of Black Ultra vape pods in various flavors.

A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued on August 12 against the shipment for violating Sections 117, 1113 (i), and 1400 of Republic Act No. 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, in relation to Department of Trade and Industry Department Order No. 22-16, series of 2022.

In a joint operation with the Philippine National Police–Criminal Investigation and Detection Group and the CIIS on August 14, authorities arrested the shipment’s recipient in Quiapo, Manila.

BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno vowed continued vigilance against smuggling. “The BOC will remain steadfast in guarding our country’s borders to protect Filipino consumers from illegal importations,” he said.

Port of Clark District Collector Jairus Reyes commended the agency’s personnel, saying the seizure highlighted the effectiveness of intelligence work and the dedication of customs officers.

“This accomplishment demonstrates the effectiveness of our intelligence gathering and the dedication of our people in intercepting smuggled goods before they reach the Philippine market. We commend our personnel and remain unwavering in our mandate to curb smuggling,” Reyes said.

The BOC said its efforts are aligned with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to promote secure and transparent trade while protecting public health and safety.