Port Irene, Sta. Ana, Cagayan
March 14, 2018

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte, together with Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA) officials, led the Condemnation and Public Destruction of Contraband Vehicles at the Port Irene in Sta. Ana, Cagayan province.

A total of 14 used contraband luxury vehicles worth PhP 27 million smuggled from Japan and Korea were backhoed after they remain unclaimed by its consignee, the First Cagayan Leisure and Resort Corporation (FCLRC), following the Executive Order (E.O.) 156 that prohibits the importation of used vehicles in the country. Among the luxury vehicles destroyed were Maserati Quattro Porte, Porsche 911 GT3, BMW Alpina B12, BMW Z1, Opel Manta, Renault R5, and eight (8) units of Mercedes Benz.

During the event, President Duterte reiterated the government’s strong stance to curb corruption and irregularities in ports, especially in freeports.

“The destruction of these contraband luxury vehicles signifies our strong resolve to restore good governance, preserve our nation’s dignity and safeguard our people’s welfare,” he said.

“Illegal practices will be dealt with to ensure that every department, agency and instrumentality is free from corruption,” President Duterte added.

After the ceremony, 841 vehicles more, which were also part of the illegal shipment of the said luxury vehicles, will also be destroyed once its documents are reviewed and finalized.

Issued by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on December 12, 2002, the E.O. 156 aims to strengthen the local automotive industry and deter smuggling of imported vehicles.

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