BALANGA CITY — The Bataan Police Provincial Office (PPO) intensified its campaign against economic crimes after seizing an estimated ₱2.5 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and arresting a suspect during an entrapment operation in Limay town.
Operatives of the Limay Municipal Police Station (MPS) conducted a buy-bust operation along Ambrocio Street in Barangay Townsite, on February 19, 2026.
Following prior coordination with the Bureau of Customs, the operation resulted in the arrest of a 49-year-old male suspect and the confiscation of several master cases and rims of assorted suspected smuggled cigarettes.
The suspect and the confiscated evidence are currently under the custody of the Limay MPS for proper documentation and disposition.
Authorities will file charges against the suspect for violation of Section 1401 in relation to Section 1113(f) of Republic Act 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
Bataan PPO Provincial Director Police Colonel Marites Salvadora warned individuals involved in smuggling and other illegal activities that law enforcement operations across the province will remain relentless.
She emphasized that all violators will be held accountable as part of the intensified campaign to maintain public order and protect the national economy.
Salvadora said the operation supports the focused agenda of Philippine National Police chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. and is carried out under the guidance of Police Regional Director PBGen. Ponce Rogelio Peñones Jr.
The Bataan police also urged the public to remain vigilant and report illegal activities, underscoring the importance of community cooperation in safeguarding economic stability and sustaining peace and order in Central Luzon and across the country.
