Authorities uncovered around ₱25 million worth of suspected smuggled footwear during a joint anti-smuggling operation conducted on March 4, 2026 in Barangay Calantipe, Apalit, Pampanga.
The operation was carried out by joint elements of the Bureau of Customs through its Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service–Enforcement and Security Service (CIIS-ESS) in Limay, Bataan, in coordination with the Philippine National Police Regional Office 3, the Pampanga Police Provincial Office Provincial Intelligence Unit, the Regional Special Operations Group (RSOG) PRO3, and the Apalit Municipal Police Station.
Authorities implemented the inspection under a Letter of Authority issued by the Bureau of Customs. After coordinating with barangay officials and receiving no response to repeated call-outs and knocks, the team forcibly opened the warehouse in the presence of local officials.
Inside the facility, authorities discovered assorted footwear bearing patents and markings of the Crocs brand, with an estimated aggregate value of ₱25 million. The items are now undergoing inspection and verification to determine possible violations of existing customs laws and regulations.
The operation concluded at around 4:00 p.m. and was conducted peacefully with no untoward incidents reported. The Bureau of Customs has begun inventory and documentation procedures, while further findings and possible legal actions will be included in a follow-up report.
According to Jess B. Mendez, the successful operation highlights the importance of strong inter-agency coordination in combating smuggling and other economic crimes.
He added that the operation supports the directive of Juanito Victor Remulla Jr. to intensify the campaign against smuggling and aligns with the focused agenda of Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr.**, which emphasizes strengthened law enforcement operations and enhanced collaboration among government agencies to safeguard the country’s economic security.
