The Bureau of Customs (BOC)-RATS Program in its all-out war on smuggling, has once again filed a criminal complaint before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against a trader and his broker for the unlawful importation of fireworks worth P40 million.

Charged are WILFREDO ONG LAPUZ owner/proprietor of GRINDERSTONE INTERNATIONAL TRADING and his licensed customs broker PAUL NORIEL C. ALCANTARA, for smuggling four twenty-footer (4×20′) container vans declared as “Tissue, Switch, Shower Curtains and Faucet” but found to contain Fireworks. The smuggled fireworks arrived at the Manila International Container Port in November last year.

“This shall serve as a warning to all smugglers that their days are numbered, especially those involved in the illegal importation of goods which may pose danger to public health and safety, smugglers would soon realize that the BOC is not the place for them to be,” Commissioner Biazon said.

For his part, Intelligence Group Deputy Commissioner Danilo Lim conveyed his satisfaction over the Manila International Container Port (MICP)-Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS), and then headed by Ms. Marissa Galang, for its accomplishment in apprehending the smuggled fireworks.

Deputy Commissioner Peter M. Manzano, on the other hand, said, to date, the RATS Group has filed a total of 32 cases under the watch of Commissioner Biazon.

“The RATS Group has lived up to its mandate, to curb smuggling activities through continuous case profiling/building and active prosecution of smuggling cases. Having in mind the leadership of the Honorable Commissioner in accordance with the directive of His Excellency, President Benigno S. Aquino, rest assured that the RATS Group will relentlessly and continuously combat smuggling in all forms, in all ports and at all costs,” Manzano said.