Grey Market iPhones and iPads Seized in Binondo, 3 Chinese Nationals Arrested

A warehouse in Manila's Binondo district was raided by authorities after receiving reports of unauthorized gadgets being sold. The operation, led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC), resulted in the seizure of 37 iPhones and 263 iPads—none of which had proper clearance from Philippine regulators.

Six people were arrested during the July 5 operation on Alvarado Street, including three Chinese nationals. The value of the seized gadgets was estimated at around P3.5 million.

According to CIDG Acting Director BGen. Romeo Macapaz, the devices were openly displayed inside a warehouse, ready for anyone to purchase. What made these units questionable was the lack of proper certification from the NTC and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), meaning they didn’t meet local standards for safety and compliance.

While the devices themselves were not confirmed to be counterfeit, their grey market status raises red flags. Without official certification, there’s no guarantee that these gadgets are safe to use. Substandard electronics can pose risks like overheating or software issues, especially when they don’t pass through required inspections.

The operation is part of a broader campaign by the CIDG and NTC to protect Filipino consumers from the potential dangers of uncertified electronics, and to clamp down on illegal import and distribution networks that bypass proper channels.

Macapaz also warned that more operations may follow, as this incident suggests other similar sellers may be operating in nearby areas.

(via ABS-CBN News)