Authorities arrested a 33-year-old man and seized more than ₱4.49 million worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes during a law enforcement operation in Barangay Mampang, Zamboanga City.
The operation was conducted at around 12:20 a.m. on July 5, 2026, by the CIDG Zamboanga City Field Unit, the Bureau of Customs Regional Office IX, and the Zamboanga City Police Office for an alleged violation of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
A report that reached CIDG Director PMGEN Robert AA Morico II identified the suspect as alias “Min,” male, 33, married, and a resident of Barangay Mampang, Zamboanga City.
Authorities said Min was intercepted while driving a Toyota Hi-Ace van loaded with alleged smuggled cigarettes valued at ₱4,491,664.80. The tobacco products allegedly lacked the required tax stamps.
The suspect was arrested after he failed to present documents authorizing the lawful possession, transport, distribution, or sale of the intercepted tobacco products.
The CIDG said the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act seeks to modernize and streamline customs and tariff administration, enhance revenue collection, facilitate legitimate trade, prevent and suppress smuggling and other customs fraud, and promote efficiency, transparency, and integrity in customs service.
The agency said cigarette smuggling causes serious damage to the country’s economy, public health systems, and national security because smuggled cigarettes bypass mandatory customs duties and excise, or sin, taxes.
The CIDG assured the public that it remains committed to enforcing the law and pursuing criminal networks involved in smuggled cigarettes and illegal cigarette manufacturing facilities across the country.