Manila: About PHP33 million worth of misdeclared pharmaceutical products from China were seized at the Manila International Container Port, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) said Tuesday. Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno stated that the shipment was initially declared as containing 1,144 pet cages, but a spot check revealed several undeclared medicines.

According to Philippines News Agency, customs personnel found various undeclared commodities without the required permits from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), including 330 boxes of pharmaceutical products valued at over PHP33 million. In addition to the pharmaceutical products, authorities discovered 400 boxes of other goods, including electronics, cosmetics, automotive parts, hardware, and various accessories, worth PHP19.69 million.

Customs Commissioner Nepomuceno emphasized the commitment of the BOC to prevent illicit trade, stating, "We will not allow illicit trade to undermine the safety of our people or the integrity of our economy. I just want to assure those who plan to smuggle illegal products into the country that I and the BOC will ensure that all those responsible for this type of activity will be held accountable."

Meanwhile, MICP District Collector Felipe Geoffrey de Vera affirmed the port's commitment to maintaining heightened vigilance at the border. Officials from the FDA and representatives from pharmaceutical firm UNILAB Inc. were also present during the inspection.