CTA Clears 20,000 Sacks of Rice Worth P40M for Release
The Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) has cleared over 20,000 sacks of rice, worth approximately P40 million, for release. The rice, previously seized due to smuggling allegations, was stored at the National Food Authority (NFA) warehouse in Cebu City. The CTA dismissed charges against the two companies involved, River Valley Distribution Inc. (RVDI) and Mixed Load Distribution Network Inc. (MLDNI).
RVDI has fully complied with all importation requirements, including payment of duties and taxes. Despite this, the company has faced controversy and is now considering legal action. The rice sacks, set to be transferred to the companies' licensed storage units, have incurred molding damage during storage at the NFA warehouse. RVDI is currently awaiting clearance from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group for the immediate release of the rice sacks.
Following the CTA's dismissal of charges, the seized rice is now ready for release. However, the rice's condition due to storage damage and the ongoing legal considerations may impact its distribution.
