POLICE authorities are now investigating the extent of a counterfeit network operating in Parañaque City after operatives of the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) confiscated millions-worth of fake Apple products during a raid on a residential compound in Barangay Tambo.

The CIDG operatives were able to arrest two suspects after seizing the substandard Apple products worth ₱121.4 million that did not have the required clearance from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and registration from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

With the successful operation, a major crackdown on counterfeit tech has unfolded in the city as two suspects, identified only as 'Crissa' and 'Charles', were caught red-handed while selling unauthorized iPhones, Apple Watches and various accessories and gadgets.

The duo failed to present proper clearances from the NTC nor the required registration from the DTI. Their actions are considered violations of the Consumer Act of the Philippines (RA 7394), specifically Articles 18 and 50, as well as the NTC Memorandum Circular 08-08-2004A.

According to CIDG acting chief Brigadier General Romeo Macapaz, the police raid was triggered by intelligence reports on the suspects’ illegal business activities.

Gadgets and accessories being sold by the suspects ang confiscated by the raiding team included 225 Apple watches, 531 MagSafe chargers, 4,580 AirPods, 2,652 charger adaptors, 6,664 charger sets, 1,033 iPhone accessories, 1,740 charging cords,126 Beats Solo headphones, 70 car chargers, 87 handheld fans, 77 hair dryers, 110 earphones and one alleged iPhone 16 unit

“This successful operation reflects our unwavering commitment to combat illegal trade and protect Filipino consumers from hazardous and substandard products,” Macapaz enthused while praising the CIDG Anti-Organized Crime Unit for their decisive action.

He likewise encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report illegal activities in their area: “We urge everyone to report any suspicious or illegal activities in their communities. Your CIDG is here to respond swiftly and fearlessly.”