NBI Raids Seize PHP13 Million in Counterfeit Luxury Goods

MANILA — Over the weekend, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) conducted raids that led to the seizure of PHP13 million worth of counterfeit luxury items, including electronics and beauty products. These operations underscore ongoing efforts to combat the sale and distribution of fake goods in the Philippines.

According to Philippines News Agency, the two operations spearheaded by the Rizal District Office (NBI-RIZDO) and the National Capital Region office (NBI-NCR) on July 5, 2024, targeted counterfeit items purporting to be from Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd, Victoria’s Secret, and Bath and Body Works. NBI Director Jaime Santiago highlighted these actions as a significant step towards protecting consumer interests and maintaining the integrity of legitimate brands.

The NBI-RIZDO launched its operation following a complaint about violations of the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines (RA No. 8293) in Manila, which involved the illegal marketing and sale of counterfeit Huawei products. This operation resulted in twelve search warrants being executed and the confiscation of PHP1 million worth of fake Huawei items.

Similarly, a complaint by Lee Bumgarner, Inc. (LBI), representing Victoria’s Secret and Bath and Body Works, prompted the NBI-NCR to act. This led to raids in Manila, Quezon City, and Paranaque City, with law enforcement officials seizing counterfeit beauty products valued at approximately PHP12,282,500.

Director Santiago encouraged the public to verify the authenticity of their purchases by buying exclusively from authorized retailers or directly from the official brand stores, emphasizing the importance of consumer vigilance in the fight against counterfeit goods.