The Philippine Navy has stepped up its campaign against maritime smuggling, intercepting two separate smuggling attempts off Zamboanga within a week and seizing nearly P19 million worth of illicit tobacco products.
In a statement, the Philippine Navy said the operations were carried out by the Western Mindanao Naval Command, resulting in the capture of undocumented cigarette shipments and vessels involved in the illegal transport activity.
The first operation took place on April 26, when naval forces intercepted M/B Dayang Janna, uncovering around 50 master cases of undocumented cigarettes. The shipment was later valued at over P7.57 million based on assessment by the Bureau of Customs at the Port of Zamboanga. Crew members were unable to present proper documentation for both the vessel and its cargo.
A second interception followed on May 3, involving a motorized banca identified as M/B Bas. Authorities seized 73 master cases of assorted illicit tobacco products from the vessel, with an estimated value exceeding P11.23 million.
All individuals apprehended during the operations were informed of their rights and brought to Naval Station Romulo Espaldon for processing. The confiscated goods and vessels were later turned over to the Bureau of Customs for further investigation and the filing of charges under Republic Act No. 12022 or the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act.
Naval officials said the back-to-back interceptions highlight the military’s intensified efforts to secure the country’s maritime borders and curb smuggling activities that undermine government revenue and economic stability.