In a significant crackdown on smuggling, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) raided a warehouse in Makati City, uncovering luxury vehicles valued at PHP366 million. The operation, led by the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service at the Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP), took place on February 14, 2025, and targeted high-end brands like Ferrari, Porsche, and McLaren.
Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio highlighted the success of this raid, which followed closely on the heels of another operation in Pasay and Parañaque Cities the previous day, where PHP1.4 billion worth of luxury vehicles were seized. Rubio emphasized the BOC’s new strategy and relentless pursuit of smugglers, stating that their capabilities extend beyond national borders.
The raided warehouse, operated by ACH High-End Motor Service Center on J.P. Rizal Street, was visited by BOC officials and the Philippine Coast Guard’s Task Force Aduana. They served a Letter of Authority to verify the legitimacy of the vehicles’ importation and ensure proper payment of duties and taxes.
CIIS Director Verne Enciso confirmed that the operation was initiated based on intelligence about the showroom. The inventory included a range of luxury vehicles such as a Ferrari 488 Spider, Ferrari 812 Superfast, Porsche Targa, and others, along with a motorcycle and two luxury vans.
The facility has been temporarily sealed for a detailed inventory by Customs examiners, in the presence of various officials. The parties responsible for the warehouse and vehicles have 15 days to submit documentation proving that all duties and taxes were correctly paid. Failure to do so could lead to charges under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.