Smuggled onions worth P4.5 million shipped from China inside three 40-footer containers were seized by the Bureau of Customs (BOC), after an x-ray scan revealed images different from the declared items.

“These containers were subjected to a non-intrusive inspection by the X-ray Inspection Project (XIP), however, scanned image showed other items that do not correspond to the declaration which are mugs, saucer, and decors,” BOC Commissioner Isidro Lapena said in a statement on Monday.

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District Collector Atty. Erastus Sandino Austria issued an alert order, upon the recommendation of XIP Chief Atty. Zsae Carrie de Guzman, to prevent the release of the smuggled goods from the Customs’ custody.

The packages that arrived on May 22 were consigned to Precious Prince Enterprises, which holds office at 15320-B Street corner Michael Street, San Agustin Village, Moonwalk, Parañaque City.

The signing broker is Reymund Ledesma Cigaraya of Batasan Hills.

“A warrant for seizure and detention will be issued against the P4.5-million worth shipment for violating Section 1400 in relation to Sections 1113 and 1401 of the Customs Modernization Tariff Act,” Lapena said.

The BOC chief also said that appropriate charges will be filed against both the importer and customs broker, while their accreditation with BOC may be suspended or revoked. /je

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