Public auctions of seized and abandoned goods conducted by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) yielded more than P106 million for the government as of the third quarter.
The BOC said it raised P106.926 million from public auctions of seized and abandoned goods from January to September.
The auctions were carried out by the BOC’s Auction and Cargo Disposal Division across major ports, including the Port of Manila, Manila International Container Port and Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
The disposed items covered a wide range of forfeited shipments such as consumer goods, vehicles, fuel products, industrial materials, furniture and assorted merchandise.
These goods were either seized for violations of import regulations or abandoned by consignees to avoid penalties and duties.
Under Sections 1118 and Sections 1139 to 1151 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act in relation to Customs Administrative Order No. 03-2020, the BOC is mandated to dispose of seized and abandoned goods through public auction, negotiated sale or donation to ensure transparency and compliance with established procedures.
‘The BOC affirmed its commitment to accountability and efficiency in all cargo disposal activities, ensuring that government resources are optimized for the benefit of the Filipino people,’ the agency said in a statement.
The auctions also highlight the agency’s drive to transform unutilized resources into revenue that supports the government’s priority programs and essential public services, the BOC added.
Proceeds from the auctions are booked as part of the BOC’s non-traditional revenue streams, supplementing its regular tax and tariff collections.
This year, the BOC targets to collect P958.714 billion in revenues, with P506.390 million coming from the sale of confiscated goods and properties, based on budget documents.
Customs Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said the disposal program is aligned with the directives of the president to strengthen fiscal stability through improved customs processes.
‘Through the consistent conduct of lawful and transparent auctions, the Bureau fulfills its dual mandate of protecting government revenues and facilitating legitimate trade,’ Nepomuceno was quoted in the statement as saying.
Earlier, the BOC said it is planning to auction off 13 smuggled luxury vehicles owned by contractors Sarah and Curlee Discaya, which could raise at least P200 million for the government.
The vehicles are now in the custody of the BOC due to irregularities in their importation and documentation.
Last year, the BOC generated P172.019 million from auctions of forfeited goods in various collection districts.
Some auctioned items included generator components, thermoplastic insulated electric wire cables, sewing machines, bicycles, used automotive diesel and a range of unserviceable motor vehicles.