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The Bureau of Customs on October 22 seized imported red onions worth about P5 million and other imported agricultural products during a raid on a warehouse in Cagayan de Oro
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Authorities discovered garlic, onions, mung beans, carrots, and other assorted imported goods inside the facility
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The red onions were seized after the Department of Agriculture verified the shipment had no import permit
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The owner of the products was given 15 days to present the necessary import documents; otherwise, the products will be subject to seizure and forfeiture proceedings
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized on October 22 imported red onions worth an estimated P5 million as well as other agricultural products during a raid on a warehouse in Barangay Puntod, Cagayan De Oro.
The BOC-Cagayan de Oro, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police, and barangay officials conducted the raid based on an intelligence report that the warehouse contained imported agriculture products. Finding the warehouse gates already closed and no representatives around, the team sealed the gates for their return the next day.
During inspection in the presence of the warehouse representative, authorities discovered garlic, onions, mung beans, carrots, and other assorted imported goods.
The owner of the products was given 15 days to present the necessary import documents; otherwise, the products will be subject to seizure and forfeiture proceedings under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
The sacks of onions worth an estimated P5 million, were, however, seized after the Department of Agriculture verified it had not issued an importation permit for the same. BOC said this meant the products were considered smuggled and the agency would recommend the issuance of a Warrant of Seizure and Detention for them.
The warehouse, in the meantime, was sealed and activities within the area were put on hold until the company can comply with clearance requirements for the other imported agricultural products found inside.
From January to September 2021, BOC seized P523.273 million worth of agricultural products and conducted 122 seizure activities.
