Nearly PHP16 billion worth of counterfeit products were seized during a major operation conducted by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) on May 23 at several warehouses inside a complex in Divisoria, Manila.

In a statement released Monday, the BOC reported the confiscation of over 1.727 million counterfeit items—including bags, clothing, and accessories—illegally bearing the trademarks of globally recognized brands such as Guess, Michael Kors, Coach, Louis Vuitton, and Tory Burch.

The operation forms part of the BOC’s intensified campaign against counterfeit goods and violations of intellectual property rights (IPR), in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to eliminate illegal trade and protect Filipino consumers.

“We are serious about our mission to keep counterfeit goods out of the country,” said BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio.
“This is about protecting the public, supporting legitimate businesses, and ensuring a level playing field in the market.”

Atty. Kristian Nico Acosta, legal head of the Guess Group in the Philippines, also warned the public about the health and safety hazards associated with counterfeit goods, noting their negative impact on the economy.

Acosta further urged consumers not to purchase fake products, emphasizing that doing so undermines legitimate businesses and distorts fair market competition.