The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has confiscated 17 luxury vehicles worth an estimated ₱366 million from a warehouse in Makati City, citing potential smuggling violations.
High-End Vehicles Under Investigation
Among the seized vehicles were:
🚗 Ferrari 488 Spider, Ferrari 812 Superfast
🚗 Porsche Targa, Porsche Cayenne
🚗 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG, BMW M4, Lexus LC500
🚗 Bentley Bentayga, Land Rover Defender, Audi RS Q8
🚗 McLaren 720S, Ford Explorer, Li Xiang L7 SUV
🚗 Abarth 595 Competizione, MV Agusta Brutale 1000RR motorcycle
🚗 Two Toyota Alphard luxury vans
Customs Crackdown on Smuggling
According to BOC-Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) Director Verne Enciso, intelligence agents, alongside the Philippine Coast Guard’s Task Force Aduana, inspected the warehouse after receiving reports of smuggled vehicles.
“We discovered several high-end luxury cars and are currently verifying the importation documents for these vehicles,” Enciso said.
Authorities have sealed and padlocked the showroom and storage facility while conducting a thorough inventory.
15 Days to Prove Legitimacy
Owners and responsible parties have 15 days to present proof that proper duties and taxes were paid. Failure to comply could lead to charges under Republic Act 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).
This operation follows another ₱1.4 billion luxury car seizure in Pasay and Parañaque last February 13.
BOC’s Warning to Smugglers
BOC Commissioner Bien Rubio praised CIIS for its aggressive efforts, stating:
“Our skills and capabilities extend beyond our borders. We will pursue smugglers relentlessly, wherever they hide their contraband.”
Deputy Commissioner Juvymax Uy also emphasized the need for increased vigilance, as smugglers continue to find new ways to bypass customs laws.