The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) seized ₱200 million worth of counterfeit luxury products in a raid on 33 stores in Mandaue City, Cebu.
The operation, conducted by the NBI’s Intellectual Property Rights Division (IPRD) and NBI-Central Visayas (NBI-7), took place at 1:00 PM on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at the 2nd floor of Parkmall in the North Reclamation Area.
According to IPRD-NBI Manila head John Ignacio, the raid followed a complaint filed by luxury brand Louis Vuitton (LV) in August, accusing businesses in Mandaue City of selling fake items bearing their brand.
Authorities confiscated various counterfeit products, including handbags, luggage, belts, and accessories.
The estimated value of the seized items is ₱200 million.
Ignacio explained that the operation followed test purchases and surveillance conducted by the NBI prior to the raid.
Before the opening of an LV branch at a hotel resort in South Road Properties (SRP) in Cebu City, genuine products were only available in Manila.
Authorities urged the public to buy luxury products only from legitimate stores.
The NBI-IPRD is preparing cases of trademark infringement and unfair competition against the stall owners involved.
