The Bureau of Customs (BOC) was praised by cigarette companies from the United States and Japan for the seizure of smuggled cigarettes worth P83.7 million in Bulacan. Philip Morris Philippines Manufacturing and Japan Tobacco International recognized the dedication and effectiveness of the BOC, as well as the leadership of Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio.
On April 24, authorities seized 717 boxes and six truckloads of various brands of cigarettes from a warehouse in Bocaue, Bulacan. According to Rubio, the warehouse owners will face charges for violating the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law if they fail to present the required documents within 15 days.
Owners of smuggled dried tobacco products may also be charged for violating the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act.
