BOC seizes P45 million smuggled cigarettes

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) confiscated yesterday P45 million worth of cigarettes believed to be smuggled from Shenzhen, China at the Manila International Container Port.

Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service head Alvin Enciso said the cigarettes were found in two shipping containers.

The items were misdeclared as bicycles and folding tables, Enciso said.

The shipment arrived in Manila on March 15, but it was only yesterday when the BOC physically examined the contents of the shipping containers.

The shipment was reportedly consigned to JDR General Merchandise.