02/10/2026
CHINESE NATIONAL ARRESTED AS PNP SEIZES ₱500K ALLEGED FAKE SEASONING IN CEBU
Under the leadership of PGen Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief, Philippine National Police (PNP), authorities arrested a 61-year-old Chinese national and seized approximately 100 boxes of alleged counterfeit food seasoning products valued at ₱500,000.00 during a law enforcement operation in Cebu City.
The operation was conducted on September 29 in Barangay Sto. Niño by personnel of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), together with intelligence personnel, territorial police units, and representatives of the concerned brand owner. The suspect was reportedly found selling and trading the alleged counterfeit products.
The operation stemmed from a complaint concerning the alleged sale, distribution, and possession of counterfeit seasoning products. The seized items were secured for proper documentation and disposition, while the arrested suspect was placed under police custody for the filing of appropriate charges under Republic Act No. 8293, or the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines.
PGen Nartatez emphasized that protecting consumers and legitimate businesses requires close coordination between law enforcement, government agencies, and the private sector.
“When there is a complaint about counterfeit products, we take it seriously because it affects both consumers and legitimate businesses. We will continue to coordinate with the concerned agencies and rights holders, verify the information, and act within the law.”
The operation is part of the PNP’s continuing efforts under the PNP Focused Agenda and Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO) to strengthen law enforcement against activities that may affect consumers, legitimate enterprises, and the integrity of commercial products. It also supports the broader public-safety priorities of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
The PNP reminds the public to be cautious when purchasing food and other consumer products, particularly those sold through unauthorized or questionable sources, and to report suspected counterfeit products to the proper authorities.
Through coordinated and lawful enforcement, the PNP remains committed to protecting communities, supporting legitimate businesses, and advancing the Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.
(PNP-PIO)
