13 cases of RP shells confiscated

Officials of United States Fish and Wildlife confiscated 13 cases of Philippine shells from a local resident who failed to secure an entry permit from the Department of Lands and Natural Resources.

DLNR Special Assistant for Correspondence Mariane Teregeyo yesterday said over 910 pounds of shells from the Philippines had been brought together with other personal effects two weeks ago.

But a route inspection conducted by US Fish and Wildlife official Ray Born of the 26 containers that arrived discovered the undocumented entry of 4,500 pieces of shells.

The owner, whose name was withheld, failed to secure necessary permits and pay taxes for the fluid release of his packages prodding the fish and wildlife official to detain the materials until he secures proper documentation.

Ms. Teregeyo said the shells which the owners claimed for personal use are allowed in the Commonwealth but failure to get necessary documents has prompted officials hold the packages at the detention center at the seaport.

She said improper documentation and failure of individuals to secure necessary permits are the frequent reasons why some packages are confiscated.

Local residents and businessmen should be informed on standard operating procedure drafted by the DLNR and ports officials to prevent similar incidents in the future. (EGA)