IP News

P28 Million in Fake Lacoste Goods Seized
September 26, 2007

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) seized P28 million worth of alleged imitations of Lacoste bags and wallet from Chinese-owned establishments in Quiapo, Manila.

NBI National Capital Region director Edward Villarta said the agents confiscated 14,000 bags and wallets bearing the Lacoste alligator logo from establishments reportedly owned by Chana Cong.

The lawmen raided Cong’s store in the Plaza Miranda Shopping Mall and the storage areas in Carriedo Center.

Villarta said they conducted the operation after the Bengzon, Negre and Untalan Law Office, representing Lacoste, filed a complaint and asked the NBI to verify reports that Cong’s establishments have been selling imitations.

Special Investigator III Rolando Besarra said they conducted a three-week surveillance and test buy operation in the area and were able to confirm the report. They then applied for search warrants from Judge Antonio Eugenio Jr., of Manila City Regional Trial Court (MCRTC) Branch 24.

Besarra said Cong has reportedly been selling imitations shipped in from China for the past three years.

He said they are now preparing to charge Cong with violating intellectual property laws.

(Source: Philippine Star, Sept. 15, 2007)

More News | View Archive