A JOINT anti-smuggling operation in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental, led to the confiscation of about 8,875 reams and 418 packs of illegal cigarettes worth approximately P8.5 million, authorities announced on Friday.
Operatives from the Philippine National Police-Regional Intelligence Division, Negros Island Region (PNP-RID-NIR), in coordination with the Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Iloilo and the Philippine Army, conducted the operation, Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said.
Nepomuceno said the suspect is under police custody, pending disposition in accordance with laws and regulations.
The confiscated cigarettes, which carried the brands D&B, YS, and Marvels, were believed to have been distributed without permits, BOC said.
Acting on police-verified intelligence information on cigarette smuggling in the area, District Collector Noli Santua Jr. issued the mission order authorizing an inspection, according to reports.
The operation involved personnel from the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service and the Enforcement and Security Service of BOC Port of Iloilo, Nepomuceno said.
Santua said the operation's success demonstrated strong coordination among law enforcement agencies in combating smuggling, consistent with the BOC chief's directive to intensify the government's anti-smuggling campaign.
"We will continue to strengthen coordination with various agencies to suppress smuggling and protect our economy," Santua said.
Nepomuceno likewise commended the successful operation and the cooperation among the agencies involved.
"We commend the BOC Port of Iloilo, along with the PNP, the Philippine Army, and local officials, for this successful operation," he said.
"Their collaboration strengthens our fight against smuggling and helps protect government revenues and fair trade,” the BOC chief added.