The Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized an estimated P105.575 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in a compound located in Barangay Santa Isabel, Dinalupihan.
Inside the compound, a team discovered 12 motor vehicles loaded with approximately 1,030 master cases of tobacco products bearing brands such as Modern, RGD, Nise Baisha, HP, Power, Carnival, Playboy, and President. Based on the packaging and initial investigation, the countries of origin of these cigarettes are China, Vietnam, and Korea. The total estimated value of the seized goods is P105,575,000.
Initial investigation indicates that these smuggled cigarettes were intended for local distribution in Regions II and III.
The team was composed of Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) and Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) assigned at the Port of Limay, together with personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard – Task Force Aduana, and in coordination with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Regional Office No. 4 Central Luzon – Regional Investigation Division.
The operation was further carried out in close coordination with Barangay Santa Isabel officials and the Philippine National Police – Bataan Provincial Police Office (PPO), with security support provided by Charlie Company, 69th Infantry Battalion, 7th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.
Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno emphasized the agency’s commitment to the President’s directive, stating: “This successful operation demonstrates our relentless drive to combat smuggling and protect government revenue. Through collaboration and cooperation among government agencies, we can work together to solve this problem and ensure that those who attempt to circumvent our laws are held accountable.”
The BOC reiterates its unwavering commitment to secure the country’s borders, uphold trade integrity, and support the administration’s efforts to strengthen national security and economic stability.
