Ang Pahayagan

PAMPANGA — Joint law enforcement authorities intensified their campaign against smuggling after discovering an estimated Php25 million worth of suspected smuggled footwear during an inspection of a warehouse in Barangay Calantipe, Apalit, Pampanga on March 4, 2026.

The operation was carried out by personnel from the Bureau of Customs through the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service – Enforcement and Security Service (CIIS-ESS) Limay, Bataan, in coordination with the Police Regional Office 3, the Pampanga Police Provincial Office Provincial Intelligence Unit, the Regional Special Operations Group (RSOG), and the Apalit Municipal Police Station.

Authorities implemented the inspection based on a Letter of Authority issued by the Bureau of Customs. Upon arrival at the warehouse, the operating teams coordinated with barangay officials before conducting the inspection.

According to police reports, repeated call-outs and knocks yielded no response from inside the facility. With the presence of barangay officials, the team forcibly opened the warehouse to implement the authority and proceed with the inspection.

Inside the warehouse, authorities discovered assorted footwear bearing patents and markings of the Crocs brand. The items were estimated to have a total value of Php25,000,000.

Inspection and verification of the seized items were conducted in accordance with existing customs laws and regulations to determine possible violations related to smuggling and unlawful importation.

The operation concluded at around 4:00 p.m. and was conducted peacefully, with no untoward incident reported. Authorities said the inventory, documentation, and further procedural requirements are being handled by the Bureau of Customs, while additional findings and potential legal actions will be included in a follow-up report.

PRO3 Regional Director Jess B. Mendez said the operation highlights the importance of strong inter-agency coordination in combating smuggling and other economic crimes.

“Through strong coordination among national agencies, local authorities, and law enforcement units, we are able to protect legitimate businesses, safeguard government revenues, and uphold the rule of law,” Mendez said.

He added that the operation supports the directive of Juanito Victor Remulla Jr., Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, to intensify the nationwide campaign against smuggling.

Authorities emphasized that the continued crackdown is part of the Philippine National Police Focused Agenda, which prioritizes strengthened law enforcement operations and enhanced inter-agency collaboration to protect the country’s economic security. (Jason de Asis)

📸: Authorities from the Police Regional Office 3, in coordination with the Bureau of Customs, uncovered around Php25 million worth of suspected smuggled footwear during an inspection of a warehouse in Apalit, Pampanga. The operation highlights the government’s intensified campaign against smuggling to protect legitimate businesses, safeguard government revenues, and strengthen economic security. (Jason de Asis)