The Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Subic intercepted on August 18 Thai vessel M/V Bangpakaew vessel which was suspected to be carrying approximately 140,000 bags or 7,000MT of sugar.

Reportedly, part of the shipment has already been unloaded into three trucks supposedly en route to Oro Agri Trade in Rosales, Pangasinan.

The BOC said the sugar is classified as Reserved Sugar Bottlers’ Grade by the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) per Sugar Order No. 3, series of 2021-2022.

According to Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chair Rolen Paulino, the vessel has allegedly been using recycled import documents and has already paid its taxes worth P44 million. The cargo vessel is currently on hold for further investigation.

The Customs Intelligence and Investigation Services (CIIS) already sent investigators to the Port of Subic to ascertain the facts about the said shipment.

The BOC considers the filing of charges before the Action Team against Smugglers (BATAS) depending on the outcome of the investigation.

District Collector Maritess Martin, head of the Port of Subic, vowed to remain steadfast in strengthening border protection and assured that they are relentless with the port’s anti-smuggling campaign. (with reports from BOC-Port of Subic and SBMA Media Production Department)