Police arrested a Malaysian national and seized more than Php 1.3 million worth of suspected counterfeit food seasoning products during an operation in Quezon City, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported.
The suspect was arrested on November 12, 2026, in Barangay Baesa following an operation conducted by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) National Capital Region Field Unit, in coordination with representatives of Nestlé Philippines.
Authorities confiscated 350 boxes of allegedly counterfeit and trademark-infringing food seasoning products with an estimated value of Php 1,340,160.
According to the PNP, the foreign national was allegedly engaged in the unauthorized sale and distribution of products bearing trademarks registered to Nestlé Philippines.
The suspect is accused of violating Section 155 in relation to Section 170 of Republic Act No. 8293, or the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines.
Section 155 prohibits trademark infringement, including the unauthorized use of registered trademarks in connection with the sale, distribution or advertising of goods when such use is likely to cause confusion among consumers.
Section 170 provides penalties for violations involving trademark infringement.
The PNP said the operation formed part of its intensified campaign against counterfeit goods and intellectual property violations, particularly those involving products sold to consumers.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. warned that the illegal distribution of counterfeit products could harm legitimate businesses and undermine public confidence in commercial products.
“Counterfeit products undermine legitimate businesses and erode consumer confidence. We will hold those responsible accountable under the law,” Nartatez said.
“Dapat maprotektahan ang mga mamimili laban sa mga pekeng produkto. Hindi dapat gamitin ang rehistradong trademark ng ibang kumpanya nang walang pahintulot para lamang kumita sa panlilinlang,” he added.
The police chief emphasized that authorities would continue pursuing individuals and groups allegedly involved in the manufacture, distribution and sale of counterfeit merchandise.
The operation supports the PNP’s Focused Agenda, particularly its Enhanced Managing Police Operations program, which includes sustained enforcement against intellectual property violations and unauthorized commercial activities.
The PNP said its campaign against counterfeit goods would continue as part of broader efforts to protect consumers, uphold intellectual property rights and safeguard legitimate businesses.
The suspect remains entitled to due process, and the allegations against him are subject to the appropriate legal proceedings.
