SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — Customs authorities at the Port of Subic seized a shipment of frozen chicken and fish tofu worth about ₱6.669 million after it was declared as cooked tofu, the Bureau of Customs said.

The shipment from Hong Kong arrived in a 40-foot container and was flagged for inspection based on intelligence information indicating that it might contain frozen or processed food products and agricultural commodities.

A physical examination found 1,380 cartons of frozen chicken breast and 174 cartons of frozen fish tofu, contrary to the shipment’s declaration.

The shipment was recommended for the issuance of a Warrant of Seizure and Detention for alleged violations of the Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009, the Food Safety Act of 2013 and related Department of Agriculture regulations, in relation to Section 1113(f) of Republic Act 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.

Port of Subic District Collector Atty. Geniefelle P. Lagmay said the seizure underscores the bureau’s responsibility to enforce customs regulations and prevent illegal shipments from entering the country.

“The Port of Subic remains steadfast in its duty to protect our borders and ensure that all shipments entering the country comply with customs laws and regulations,” Lagmay said.

Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said the bureau’s personnel must remain focused on their duties amid organizational changes at the Port of Subic.

“Despite the recent personnel movements and internal cleansing efforts at the Port of Subic, I expect our personnel to remain focused on protecting our borders and faithfully carrying out their responsibilities as public servants,” Nepomuceno said.

He also warned smugglers and those who facilitate illegal shipments that they would face legal action.

The BOC said the seizure is part of its continuing enforcement against smuggling and customs violations, including the entry of misdeclared agricultural and food products. (Jun Dumaguing for Ang Pahayagan)

📸 BOC Port of Subic