The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group seized P3.87 million worth of cigarettes without graphic health warnings from an impounded vehicle in San Fernando City, Pampanga.
The operation was conducted from 9:04 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on July 1, 2026, by the CIDG Regional Field Unit 3 and the San Fernando City Police Station at the Land Transportation Office 3 compound in Barangay Maimpis.
Authorities implemented a search warrant for violation of Republic Act No. 7394, or the Consumer Act of the Philippines, and Republic Act No. 10643, or the Graphic Health Warnings Law.
The search resulted in the confiscation of 60 master cases of cigarettes without graphic health warnings, with an estimated value of P3,870,000.
A report submitted to CIDG Director PMGen. Robert AA Morico II said the operation stemmed from a request for assistance from the Land Transportation Office Region 3 involving a vehicle left locked and unattended after an “Anti-Colorum Checkpoint.”
The CIDG Regional Field Unit 3 then applied for a search warrant to lawfully open, inspect, and examine the vehicle. The operation was witnessed by barangay officials.
Morico said the State protects and promotes the people’s right to health, instills health consciousness, and protects consumers from trade malpractices and substandard tobacco products.
The CIDG said Republic Act No. 10643 requires highly visual, picture-based health warnings on all tobacco product packaging to effectively communicate the hazards of smoking.
The CIDG leadership commended PCOL Grant A. Gollod, regional chief of CIDG Regional Field Unit 3, and the Special Operations Team led by PMAJ Wiltz Konrad A. Sally for the successful confiscation of the substandard cigarettes.
Authorities said the operation prevented the distribution of the products to consumers and strengthened government efforts to protect public health from unregulated tobacco products that may pose serious health risks.
The CIDG assured the public that it remains resolute in enforcing the law and pursuing individuals and criminal networks involved in illicit and smuggled tobacco products across the country.