The Western Mindanao Naval Command (WMNC), through Naval Task Force 61 and its operating units, intercepted two vessels carrying undocumented foreign cigarettes worth an estimated P93.89 million during separate maritime interdiction operations in the waters of Sulu on June 18, 2026.
In the first operation, naval personnel intercepted M/B Aslinda southeast of Cabucan Island in Hadji Panglima Tahil, Sulu. A lawful inspection yielded approximately 305 master cases of undocumented foreign-brand cigarettes. The crew failed to present required cargo and vessel documents, prompting the apprehension of the vessel and its personnel. The seized items were valued at P47,578,152.
In a separate operation, authorities intercepted M/V Babyboy southwest of Marungas Island, Jolo, Sulu. A Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) operation uncovered around 300 master cases of undocumented cigarettes concealed beneath other cargo. The vessel and crew were subsequently detained and escorted to Zamboanga City. The shipment was valued at P46,317,446.
The combined value of the seized vessels and contraband reached P93,895,598.
All confiscated vessels, cargo, and personnel were turned over to the Bureau of Customs at the Port of Zamboanga for proper legal action and disposition in accordance with existing laws and regulations.
The WMNC said the operations form part of its continuing maritime security efforts to combat smuggling and other illegal activities in southern Philippine waters and to strengthen enforcement of customs and maritime laws.