The Philippine Navy intercepted two separate maritime smuggling operations in Basilan and Sulu, leading to the seizure of more than P113 million worth of undocumented foreign-brand cigarettes.
The Western Mindanao Naval Command and Naval Task Force 61 carried out the interdictions on May 23 and 24 as part of continuing maritime security operations in the southern Philippines.
The first operation took place on May 23 off Tongquil Island in Sulu, where Navy units intercepted a vessel marked FB Sea Dragon and identified in documents as MPB Sea Horse.
Authorities found about 282 master cases of undocumented cigarettes on board, with an estimated value of P42.7 million.
A second operation followed on May 24 near Sibago Island in Hadji Mohammad Ajul, Basilan, where naval personnel apprehended M/B Lappas.
The vessel was carrying around 473 master cases of undocumented cigarettes valued at approximately P70.9 million.
Navy personnel conducted boarding, inspection, and verification procedures, which confirmed that the shipments had no required legal documents or permits.
The crew members were unable to present proof of lawful transport and possession of the cargoes, prompting the apprehension of the vessels and personnel for alleged violation of Republic Act No. 12022, or the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act.
Authorities said all apprehended individuals were processed, medically examined, and informed of their constitutional rights in accordance with legal and operational procedures.
The vessels and seized cargoes were brought to Naval Station Romulo Espaldon in Zamboanga City for inventory and documentation before turnover to the Bureau of Customs, Port of Zamboanga, for proper disposition.
The Navy said the operations underscored its intensified campaign against maritime smuggling and other illegal activities in Western Mindanao’s sea lanes.