Manila: The Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Friday reported the seizure of misdeclared agricultural goods worth PHP7.7 million concealed in four container vans at the Port of Manila. In a statement, the BOC said the shipments were declared as assorted food products, including egg noodles, noodles, soya wrappers, fish tofu, and wakame salad.

According to Philippines News Agency, physical inspection conducted by customs examiners revealed the shipments actually contained 12,909 boxes of misdeclared fresh carrots and 1,452 boxes of egg noodles. The carrots were valued at about PHP6.97 million, while the egg noodles were worth around PHP773,557, bringing the total estimated value to more than PHP7.74 million, inclusive of duties and taxes.

The shipments arrived at the Port of Manila in two batches on March 22 and 25, 2026. Acting on derogatory information, the port issued alert orders against the cargo. Following inspection, the BOC issued Warrants of Seizure and Detention on May 11 and 22, 2026.

The shipments were later forfeited in favor of the government for violations of Sections 117 and 1400 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, in relation to Section 1113 of the same law and Republic Act 10845, or the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016. BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the agency remains committed to strengthening enforcement efforts, curbing agricultural smuggling, and protecting Filipino farmers and consumers.