A couple was caught at a convenience store in Parañaque on Saturday morning for selling fake electronic gadgets and cellphone accessories. According to the CIDG, an entrapment operation was conducted and an estimated P121 million worth of counterfeit products was confiscated.
Barangay Tambo Kagawad Darwin Morit said that two Filipinos were arrested with 31 cellphone units worth P955,650. They also showed where other items were hidden. The product is not registered with Customs and the business, which is said to be owned by a Chinese national, also does not have a business permit.
Morit added that the price of smuggled items is lowered so that they are more affordable than the original. Authorities are continuing their investigation to identify other accomplices in the illegal activity.
The female suspect, 28 years old, defended herself, saying she did not know that the operation was illegal. She said the job she applied for was office staff, but she was actually assigned to sell illegal gadgets. The Chinese boss left the country on July 15.
Her boyfriend, who drove her to the scene, did not give a statement. The two are currently in the custody of the CIDG and will be charged under the Consumer Act of the Philippines. The search for the Chinese national involved in the crime is also ongoing.
