The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), in coordination with other law enforcement agencies, intercepted container vans carrying suspected illicit cigarettes in a series of operations in Cebu from June 23 to 24, 2026.
Authorities said the operation began around 9 pm on June 23 after PCG intelligence units received information about the alleged transport of contraband from a wharf in Mandaue City.
Acting on the report, PCG units conducted monitoring and interdiction operations in coordination with the Bureau of Customs (BOC), Philippine National Police (PNP), and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for verification and case buildup.
Initial inspection led to the discovery of two container vans along Hernan Cortes Street in Mandaue City containing multiple boxes of suspected illicit cigarettes, with an estimated value of around P110 million, subject to validation by authorities.
Follow-up operations based on additional intelligence led PCG personnel to Barangay Bacayan in Cebu City, where six more 40-foot container vans were found allegedly loaded with similar contraband.
The additional shipment was estimated to be worth about P480 million, bringing the total value of seized suspected illicit cigarettes to approximately P590 million.
All container vans, cargoes, and individuals linked to the shipment were secured and are undergoing inventory, documentation, and verification procedures with the BOC, PNP, and NBI.
Authorities said the operation underscores continued inter-agency efforts to disrupt smuggling activities that affect government revenues and legitimate trade.
The PCG said it will sustain intelligence-driven maritime and land-based enforcement operations as part of its broader mandate to protect national borders and economic interests.