THE Bureau of Customs (BOC)-Port of Surigao last week seized P3.3 billion worth of assorted cigarettes and raw tobacco materials in Agusan del Norte, one of the biggest anti-smuggling crackdowns in the region this year.
The operation, which targeted a container yard, led agents to 54 container vans suspected of carrying undocumented and illegally imported tobacco products.
Initial findings showed that 52 of the container vans were packed with assorted cigarette brands, including Red and Menthol Modern, Red and Menthol Carnival, Nise Baisha, Commando, Gold H&P, Delta, GJB-FH, BR Centro, Centro, Bossku, and TS Cigarettes.
The remaining two container vans were loaded with raw tobacco materials.
Authorities said the shipments appeared foreign in origin, based on the markings and container numbers.
During the verification process, company representatives of the confiscated items claimed that the shipping lines and consignees involved had been informed about the shipments. However, they failed to present proof of payment of duties and taxes, import permits, or valid shipping documents when requested by authorities.
To preserve the evidence and prevent possible tampering, the BOC padlocked all 54 container vans after the inspection.
The entire area was also placed under round-the-clock security by Customs Police under the Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) District Office of the Port of Surigao, with assistance from the Philippine National Police.
The operation was enforced through a Letter of Authority issued by Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to intensify the government’s campaign against smuggling and strengthen border protection nationwide.
“This reflects our firm commitment to going after illicit tobacco shipments and ensuring that all imported goods entering the country are properly declared and compliant with customs laws. We will continue to strengthen our enforcement efforts and work closely with partner agencies to protect our borders and government revenues,” Nepomuceno said.
Inventory, examination and verification proceedings are ongoing to determine the exact volume of the shipments, their final valuation, and possible violations that may lead to the filing of charges against the perpetrators.