-
Chinese medicines worth about P1.5 million were apprehended at a storage facility in Pasay City
-
The January 14 raid revealed a makeshift clinic suspected to have been used to treat COVID-19 related cases
-
Another investigation underway to identify operators of the makeshift clinic
Chinese medicines worth an estimated P1.5 million have been apprehended by government authorities in a storage facility in Pasay City.
The raid on the storage facility by customs and intelligence operatives on January 14 also revealed the existence of a makeshift clinic.
The operation was conducted by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) Manila International Container Port, Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service, and Enforcement and Security Service, in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard and National Bureau of Investigation.
One of the apprehended medicines was identified as Ribavirin, which is used to treat pneumonia and bronchitis, raising strong suspicion the clinic was treating COVID-related cases, BOC said in a statement.
The seized medicines are now undergoing further inventory and investigation for violation of Section 1113 (Property Subject to Seizure and Forfeiture) of Republic Act 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act. Investigation is also underway to identify those responsible for operating the makeshift clinic.
BOC has warned the public against the use of medicines without proper Department of Health and Food and Drug Administration clearances.
It is also urging the public not to patronize fly-by-night clinics as this may lead to further health risks, and to coordinate instead with proper government agencies for treatment.
