DAVAO CITY — The Bureau of Customs stationed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport on May 19, 2021 apprehended a total of 2,032 pieces of Live Ornamental Plants for failure to secure the required Plant Quarantine Permit prior to importation.
Records show that the apprehended plant arrived at Paircargo warehouse reported to contain 100 pieces of Live Ornamental Plants. However, physical examination yielded 2,032 pieces of Various Ornamental Plants including Alocasia, Aglaonema, Pothos, Calathea, Philodendron, Crimson, Monstera, Cactus, Sanseveria, and Rubber Plant.
Aside from violation of Section 1113 in relation to Section 1400 (Misdeclaration) of the CMTA, the apprehended plant products were similarly confiscated for lack of prior Plant Quarantine Permit from the Bureau of Plant Industry in violation of Department of Agriculture (DA) Department Circular No. 4, Series of 2016 and DA Administrative Circular No. 5, Series of 2020.
Pursuant to Section 8, Customs Administrative Order No. 10-2020, all seized items were immediately turned over to the Bureau of Plant Industry for quarantine and immediate disposal to prevent the spread of possible plant diseases and pests that can severely affect local agriculture.
BOC-NAIA reminds the public that prior to importation of any plant, a Sanitary and Phytosanitary Import Clearance (SPSIC) from the Bureau of Plant Industry is required.
