The Philippine National Police (PNP) once again demonstrated a decisive move against illegal trade as it confiscated illegal items, including refurbished laptops and mobile phones, during a joint law enforcement operation conducted on February 5, 2026, at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.
The operation, carried out at Subic Bay Gateway Park, was led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Regional Field Unit 3, in close coordination with the CIDG Olongapo City Field Unit, the Olongapo City Police Station, and the Provincial Intelligence Team of Zambales.
During the raid, authorities seized a total of 2,400 refurbished laptops with an estimated market value exceeding Php12 Million. The confiscated items included 460 Dell Chromebooks, 600 Acer Chromebooks, 690 HP Chromebooks, and 650 Lenovo Chromebooks. In addition, 65 mobile phones were recovered, along with documentary evidence such as an order book, a checklist report, and a Certificate of Registration issued by the Bureau of Customs.
The case stemmed from a four-month intelligence-driven investigation that began in October 2025, following reports that certain individuals were allegedly diverting refurbished laptops originally intended for export and selling them in the local market without proper authorization. Authorities noted that such activities not only deprive the government of correct tax revenues but also create unfair competition that adversely affects legitimate businesses complying with trade regulations.
Further investigation revealed that the respondents allegedly failed to secure the necessary permits and approval from the National Telecommunications Commission for the local distribution and sale of the electronic devices. The absence of regulatory clearance raised concerns regarding consumer protection, product compliance standards, and lawful trade practices.
Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., PNP Chief, emphasized that the successful operation demonstrates the organization’s firm commitment to upholding the law and safeguarding public interest.
“This accomplishment reflects our unwavering commitment to protect consumers, enforce the law, and uphold fairness in business practices. Hindi natin papayagan ang sinumang lumalabag sa batas. Each arrest sends a clear message that illegal activities will be met with swift action,” he said.
As of this writing, charges are being prepared against the arrested individuals for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 7394, otherwise known as the Consumer Act of the Philippines; provisions on Unfair Competition under applicable laws; and Republic Act No. 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. Meanwhile, authorities continue their efforts to locate and apprehend the remaining suspect, identified as Jia Zhoulong, a Chinese national and the alleged owner of the facility.
PNP underscored that this operation forms part of its sustained campaign against illegal trade practices and economic offenses. By intensifying intelligence gathering, strengthening inter-agency coordination, and ensuring strict enforcement of existing laws, the organization aims to promote transparency, accountability, and integrity in commerce.
As the country advances toward the vision of a Bagong Pilipinas, PNP reaffirmed its resolve to remain proactive in protecting consumers, supporting legitimate enterprises, and ensuring that business operations across the nation adhere to lawful and ethical standards.
