Manila: The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has issued a warrant of seizure and detention (WSD) against actor Derek Ramsay due to alleged misdeclaration and underpayment of taxes for a Porsche 918 Spyder, reportedly registered in his name. BOC-Office of the Commissioner Deputy Chief of Staff, Chris Noel Bendijo, announced that the WSD was issued by Manila International Container Port Collector, Felipe Geoffrey De Vera IV. The warrant was set to be served to the actor immediately.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ramsay will have a little over two weeks to provide documentation that disproves any discrepancies in the payment of duties and taxes upon receiving the WSD. Bendijo stated, "Once he receives the WSD, he would be given 15 days to submit documents that would refute our findings of discrepancy in the duties and taxes." Failure to provide sufficient documentation could lead to a forfeiture order, resulting in the car being auctioned and the proceeds being added to government funds.

Ramsay has already contacted the customs office, showing willingness to cooperate with the investigation. BOC records indicate that the vehicle, which entered the Philippines in 2021, was a Porsche 918 Spyder but was documented as a Porsche Boxster. The vehicle was valued at approximately PHP48.02 million, yet its declared value was only PHP3.26 million. Additionally, taxes paid amounted to PHP1.8 million, while they should have been PHP32 million.

Bendijo also mentioned an investigation into BOC personnel who processed the vehicle's entry documents, to determine potential liability for grave misconduct and possible criminal violations of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

Meanwhile, the BOC reaffirmed its commitment to a strong partnership with the Philippine National Police (PNP), underscoring the importance of mutual respect and coordination in combating smuggling and illicit trade. The agency addressed a recent incident in Sta. Maria, Bulacan, involving BOC and PNP personnel, emphasizing that it was isolated. Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno expressed support for BOC staff performing their duties lawfully and commended the PNP for their swift response to the incident. The bureau hopes to maintain the robust partnership between the two agencies.