MANILA — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) intercepted five misdeclared packages containing Agarwood weighing 11.21 kilograms and valued at P8,407,500 at a warehouse in Lapu-Lapu City on 21 November 2025, reinforcing the agency’s crackdown on illicit trade and wildlife trafficking.

The packages, falsely declared as Alingatong Stinging Nettle, were examined by representatives from the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), Enforcement and Security Service (ESS), X-Ray Inspection Project (XIP), Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

The inspection confirmed the shipments contained Agarwood, a protected species under CITES, and required proper DENR permits. The parcels originated from Agusan del Sur and were intended for export to Malaysia and the UAE.

“This interception shows our unwavering commitment to combat illicit trade, protect wildlife, and safeguard our natural resources,” said BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno.

Following the discovery, Port of Cebu District Collector Alexandra Y. Lumontad issued a Warrant of Seizure and Detention under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (RA 10863), the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (RA 9147), and other relevant laws.

Subport of Mactan Collector Gerardo A. Campo stressed the broader impact of the operation: “Agarwood trafficking undermines environmental protection and fuels illegal wildlife trade. This success highlights the vigilance and coordination of our enforcement teams.”

Collector Lumontad lauded the collective efforts of all involved units, noting that the seizure demonstrates the Port of Cebu’s commitment to law enforcement, biodiversity protection, and responsible stewardship of the country’s natural resources.