The Philippine Navy seized more than P526 million worth of smuggled foreign-brand cigarettes in two separate maritime operations off Tawi-Tawi, blocking what authorities described as a major attempt to move illegal goods through the country’s southern backdoor.
In a statement, the Western Mindanao Naval Command said 21 crewmembers of two vessels were arrested after they were caught transporting undocumented cigarette shipments in coordination with the Bureau of Customs.
The first operation took place last Wednesday when Naval Task Force 61 intercepted M/B Zhy Zhy during a maritime patrol. Authorities found 2,519 master cases of cigarettes aboard the vessel and arrested its 14 crewmembers after they failed to present proper documents.
Two days later, Navy personnel intercepted another vessel, M/B JTK Express, carrying 1,400 master cases of cigarettes. Its seven crewmembers were also taken into custody.
“All apprehended individuals were informed of their rights and are now facing charges for violations of Republic Act No. 12022, or the Anti-Agricultural Sabotage Act, and other relevant laws on illegal importation,” the Western Mindanao Naval Command said.
The seized cigarettes were turned over to the Bureau of Customs at the Port of Zamboanga for documentation and proper disposition.
The Navy said it would continue strengthening maritime patrols in the southern Philippines to stop smuggling, economic sabotage, and other illegal activities in the country’s border waters.
“The Philippine Navy remains steadfast in safeguarding the nation’s maritime borders, intensifying efforts against economic sabotage, and ensuring that illegal goods do not pass through the country’s southern backdoor,” the command said.