FOUR shipments containing used clothing from China, South Korea, and Taiwan worth P5.6 million were seized by Bureau of Customs (BOC) agents at the Port of Davao.

BOC Commissioner Isidro Lapeña, during the media presentation at the Port of Davao Friday, September 7, said the seized four 40-footer containers were misdeclared as bed sheets, thin blankets, shoes, bags, and stuffed toys.

The shipments, which arrived on separate dates in June and July 2018, were consigned to Marjune Enterprises and Guemdol Corporation.

Lapeña led the opening of the shipments.

“I am encouraging the public not to patronize used clothing or ukay-ukay for it poses health risks. There is really wisdom in the law prohibiting its importation. The dignity of the nation and the people must be protected and should not be undermined,” he said.

The consigned is liable for violation of Section 1400, which prohibits misdeclaration, misclassification and undervaluation in goods declaration in relation to Section 1113 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), as well as Republic Act No. 4653 which prohibits the importation of used clothing and rags.

Lapeña warned ukay-ukay retailers against pursuing their illegal activities.

“The Bureau of Customs will remain aggressive and vigilant in going after you who still choose to be involved in these illegal activities. Stop short-changing the government,” he said.