Photo courtesy of PNP
Police seized an estimated Php 700 million worth of counterfeit footwear from a warehouse in Imus City, Cavite, during a joint operation on Aug. 3.
The Philippine National Police said the facility in Barangay Alapan II-A was allegedly being used to package, store and sell fake shoes carrying the marks of well-known international brands.
The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) led the operation with the Bureau of Customs (BOC), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and other law enforcement units.
Authorities inspected the warehouse under a mission order and letter of authority issued by the Bureau of Customs.
The Chinese owner of the facility remained at large and was facing possible estafa charges in relation to the Cybercrime Prevention Act, according to police.
The confiscated products were placed under the custody of the Bureau of Customs for inventory, documentation and proper disposition.
Police said the operation followed verified intelligence that the warehouse was involved in the storage and distribution of counterfeit and allegedly substandard footwear.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez said authorities would continue pursuing illegal businesses that deceive consumers and undermine legitimate traders.