MANILA — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has confiscated around PHP33 million worth of misdeclared pharmaceutical products from China at the Manila International Container Port.

Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the shipment was initially declared as containing 1,144 pet cages, but a spot inspection uncovered undeclared medicines.

Personnel discovered 330 boxes of pharmaceutical products without the necessary permits from the Food and Drug Administration, with an estimated value of over PHP33 million.

Authorities also found 400 boxes of other undeclared items, including electronics, cosmetics, automotive parts, hardware, and accessories, amounting to PHP19.69 million.

“We will not allow illicit trade to undermine the safety of our people or the integrity of our economy. I just want to assure those who plan to smuggle illegal products into the country that I and the BOC will ensure that all those responsible for this type of activity will be held accountable,” Nepomuceno said.

MICP District Collector Felipe Geoffrey de Vera said the port will continue to enforce stricter monitoring at the country’s borders.

Officials from the FDA and representatives from UNILAB Inc. were also present during the inspection.