The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has filed more than 160 criminal and administrative cases against erring stakeholders for violation of customs laws, rules, and regulations last year.

In a statement Thursday, the bureau reported that the Revenue Collection Monitoring Group (RCMG), through the Bureau’s Action Team Against Smugglers (BATAS) of the Legal Service, has filed 103 criminal cases involving 309 individuals from January to December 2021.

The cases were filed against importers and customs brokers for violations of the Republic Act No. 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) and other pertinent laws.

Meanwhile, it said 63 administrative cases were filed against licensed customs brokers before the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

Among the cases involved the unlawful importation of cigarettes valued at PHP897.1 million; agricultural products valued at PHP293.9 million; general merchandise amounting to almost PHP253.2 million; medicines valued at PHP57.1 million; motor vehicles valued at PHP49.1 million; and other commodities valued at PHP63.1 million.

Criminal cases due to unlawful removal and disarming of electronic Customs seals were also filed against erring individuals.

The BOC remains committed to continuing the fight against smuggling by filing the appropriate cases against unscrupulous individuals. (PNA)