THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Monday reported its continuing crackdown on smuggled vape products has led to the seizure of P5.07 billion worth of electronic cigarette items in the first 10 months of 2024.
Recent confiscations include P12.6 million worth of disposable vape products in San Pedro, Laguna, and the recovery of assorted imported vape devices, pods, and disposables worth P6.475 million in Quiapo, Manila.
In addition, the BOC in April condemned or destroyed 14,100 boxes of forfeited vape products recovered in October 2023 in Valenzuela, valued at P1.48 billion.
Likewise destroyed in August were 28,200 boxes of seized vape items to ensure the illicit goods won’t make their way back into the market.
“These operations highlight the BOC’s unwavering determination to dismantle the illicit networks behind vape smuggling and the continuous strengthening of its enforcement capabilities,” Customs chief Bienvenido Rubio said, adding that the agency works closely with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and enforcement and intelligence units to do its job.
“With the support of enhanced intelligence-sharing, the BOC remains vigilant in addressing emerging trends in illicit trade,” Rubio pointed out.
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