The Philippine National Police (PNP) strengthened its efforts against smuggled goods after separate operations in Mindanao led to the recovery of more than Php21.5 Million worth of smuggled cigarettes and the arrest of seven individuals on September 1–2, 2026.
In Parang, Maguindanao del Norte, police personnel intercepted a vehicle at a checkpoint at around 11:40 AM on September 1, 2026, resulting in the recovery of 250 master cases of smuggled cigarettes with an estimated market value of Php14 Million. Two Filipino men, aged 39 and 32, were arrested during the operation.
Later that day, police in Iligan City conducted a checkpoint operation that resulted in the recovery of 2,082 reams of smuggled cigarettes valued at approximately Php1.67 Million. Four Filipino men, aged 20 to 37, were arrested, while two vans believed to have been used to transport the shipment were secured.
In a separate operation in Opol, Misamis Oriental, at around 2:00 AM on September 2, police intercepted a 28-year-old Filipino man and recovered 117 master cases of smuggled cigarettes worth approximately Php5.85 Million.
The seized cigarette products were turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for proper documentation, safekeeping, and disposition. The arrested individuals were subjected to appropriate procedures pending the outcome of the proceedings.
Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., PNP Chief, said the operations demonstrate the value of sustained police presence and close coordination with partner agencies in addressing the movement of illicit goods.
“Hindi lang ito tungkol sa mga nakumpiskang produkto. It is about making sure that illegal shipments do not find a path into our communities and markets. We will keep working with the Bureau of Customs and our other partners, act on reliable information, and make sure every operation is done properly and within the bounds of the law,” PGen Nartatez said.
The operations are part of the PNP’s Focused Agenda, particularly under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which calls for coordinated and responsive police action against activities that may affect public safety and legitimate economic activity.
As the PNP sustains its efforts against the illicit movement of goods, it remains committed to delivering “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman,” through professional, accountable, and responsive police service.
