MANILA  -- As part of the Bureau of Customs' (BOC) commitment to border security, the Manila International Container Port (MICP), through the Port's Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (MICP-CIIS) in coordination with Enforcement and Security Service (MICP-ESS) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), on August 22, 2021 seized 4 luxury yachts moored at Manila International Container Terminal (MICT), Manila.

The said vessels were seized by virtue of a seizure order issued by MICP District Collector Romeo Allan R. Rosales in accordance with Section 1113 of RA 10863 also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA). The vessels were identified as Le Boss (approx 70 footer), Yuzhen8 (approx 55 footer), Yua Hal Ming Zhu (approx 110 footer, and Gu Cheng Gang Guan (approx 59 footer).

Estimated to have a market value of P120 Million, the yachts were being utilized as transport services, residence and were being commercially offered as venues for events and for private use without the necsessary conversion permit for local use as well as the payment of proper duties and taxes.

In his statement, MICP Collector Romeo Allan R. Rosales stressed that vehicles including water vessels must be imported in accordance to Philippine Customs Laws and registered to Philippine authorities such as the Philippine Marina.

MICP remains focused to its mandate to guard against smuggling under the guidance of BOC Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero. (BOC)