Ang Pahayagan

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT– In a decisive move against illegal trade and unfair business practices, the Philippine National Police (PNP) successfully confiscated more than Php12 million worth of refurbished laptops and mobile phones during a joint operation in Subic Bay Freeport Zone on February 5, 2026.

“This accomplishment reflects our unwavering commitment to protect consumers, enforce the law, and uphold fairness in business practices,” said PNP Chief PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. “Hindi natin papayagan ang sinumang lumabag sa batas at manakot sa kabuhayan ng ating mga kababayan. Each arrest sends a clear message that illegal activities will be met with swift action.”

The operation, conducted in Subic Bay Gateway Park, involved the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) RFU3 RSOT as the lead unit, alongside CIDG Olongapo CFU, Olongapo City Police, and PIT-Zambales.

During the raid, authorities seized a total of 2,400 laptops, consisting of 460 Dell Chromebooks, 600 Acer Chromebooks, 690 HP Chromebooks, and 650 Lenovo Chromebooks. In addition, 65 mobile phones were confiscated, along with one order book, a backjob checklist report, and a Certificate of Registration from the Bureau of Customs.

The case stems from a four-month intelligence-driven operation that began in October 2025, after reports surfaced that the suspects were illegally selling refurbished laptops intended for export in the local market. These activities not only evade proper taxes but also create unfair competition against legitimate local businesses. Investigations revealed that the respondents had no legal approval from the National Telecommunications Commission to sell the said electronic devices locally.

“The result of this operation is tangible proof that the PNP is committed to keeping the public safe while ensuring justice,” PGEN Nartatez added. “We remain dedicated to protecting both consumers and businesses from illegal practices.”

Cases for violations of the Consumer Act of the Philippines, Unfair Competition, and the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act are being prepared against the arrested individuals, while authorities continue efforts to apprehend the remaining suspect, identified as Jia Zhoulong, a Chinese national and owner of the facility.

This accomplishment is part of the PNP’s broader effort to uphold accountability, protect public interest, and maintain integrity in trade and commerce, in line with the vision of Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.

(PNP-PIO)

📸 CIDG