As part of its intensified nationwide campaign against illegal trade, the Philippine National Police, under the leadership of PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., conducted a major interdiction operation that resulted in the seizure of approximately Php3 Billion worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes in Agusan del Norte on May 8, 2026.
The operation was carried out by the 1st Agusan del Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company, together with the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Nasipit Municipal Police Station, in close coordination with the Provincial Intelligence Unit, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Agusan del Norte Provincial Field Unit, Maritime Police Station Agusan del Norte, Regional Intelligence Unit 13, Regional Intelligence Division 13, and the Philippine Ports Authority–Nasipit.
Authorities confiscated a total of 54 units of 40-foot container vans loaded with assorted brands of alleged smuggled cigarettes, with an estimated market value of Php3,000,000,000. The contraband was found in Barangay Talisay, Nasipit, Agusan del Norte.
According to Police General Nartatez, the successful operation underscores the PNP’s commitment to dismantling illicit trade networks and safeguarding both the country’s economy and security.
“Large-scale smuggling operations weaken lawful businesses and deprive the government of revenues intended for public services. The PNP will continue strengthening law enforcement efforts against organized illegal trade activities across the country,” he said.
He further emphasized: “Hindi tayo titigil sa pagtugis sa mga grupong sangkot sa smuggling at iba pang iligal na gawain. Patuloy nating pananagutin ang mga nasa likod nito upang maprotektahan ang interes ng taumbayan.”
This accomplishment forms part of the PNP Focused Agenda under the Enhanced Managing of Police Operations and its continuing campaign against organized criminal activities, highlighting stronger inter-agency coordination and sustained law enforcement operations nationwide.
As the campaign against smuggling and economic sabotage continues, the Nation’s Peacekeepers reaffirm its commitment to “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman,” ensuring more responsive and accountable policing for the public.
