Authorities seized more than P78 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and arrested eight suspects in two anti-smuggling operations in Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental on April 30 and May 1, 2026, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.
The first operation was launched following a tip from a barangay official about suspected illegal cigarette loading in Barangay Pundaguitan. A joint team composed of local police, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Region 11, Regional Intelligence Unit 11, Philippine Coast Guard, Armed Forces of the Philippines, National Bureau of Investigation Region 11, and other support units moved in.
Operatives intercepted a wing van truck believed to be transporting undocumented tobacco products. The driver was arrested, and authorities seized 504 master cases of cigarettes valued at around P25.2 million, along with the vehicle.
A day later, authorities intensified operations at sea through a coordinated patrol in the Davao Gulf involving the PNP Regional Maritime Unit 11, Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, Regional Intelligence Division of Police Regional Office 11, and the Davao City Police Office.
During the patrol, law enforcers flagged down a vessel identified as M/B Bukal after it failed to heed repeated orders to stop. A boarding and inspection led to the arrest of seven individuals, including the boat captain and crew.
Authorities recovered 1,246 master cases of undocumented cigarettes worth an estimated P52.96 million, along with the vessel used for transport.
All eight suspects are in police custody and have been informed of their rights. They are facing charges for violations of Republic Act 12022, or the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, along with other laws against illicit tobacco trade.
PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the twin operations highlight the importance of intelligence sharing and inter-agency coordination in combating smuggling.
He noted that sustained enforcement, backed by timely information and strong collaboration, is key to preventing large-scale illegal activities and protecting the economy.
The PNP said the operations align with the government’s intensified anti-smuggling campaign under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., as well as its own push to strengthen operational effectiveness.
Authorities also vowed to further tighten coastal and border security in coordination with partner agencies to sustain the crackdown on smuggling and protect legitimate trade.