The two customs brokers, Lujin Tenero and Brenda de Sagun, were arrested after they gave conflicting statements about smuggling operations in Cebu.
They were arrested after refusing to provide information on who their accomplices were in the operation. They could be detained at the Senate or the Pasay City Jail.
They are being investigated for ₱40 million and ₱59 million worth of smuggled agricultural products. The senators advised them to make the details public and apply as state witnesses.
According to the senators, economic sabotage in agricultural smuggling is punishable by life imprisonment. During the hearing, Tenero said he was approached by a “Carlos” to arrange the import of the containers.
De Sagun admitted to using his client's license but denied knowing a “Vicente,” who allegedly borrowed it. It also emerged that some containers were left unattended, raising questions about lapses in the Bureau of Customs' process.
