MANILA, Philippines — Some P15 million worth of smuggled white sugar and other goods were seized from a vessel in the vicinity of Sanga-sanga Island in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, the Philippine Navy said on Friday.
The Philippine Navy’s Patrol Craft PC390 intercepted M/L Aizalyn III during a routine maritime security patrol on September 10.
The vessel “was found to be carrying a substantial quantity of undocumented refined white sugar and assorted goods,” according to the Navy.
“The estimated market value of these confiscated goods stands at an astonishing 15 million,” the Navy said in a statement.
The seized goods were turned over to the Bureau of Customs Sub-Port Bongao Station for proper disposition and further investigation.
“The apprehension of the M/L Aizalyn III demonstrates the Navy’s capability to swiftly respond to threats and maintain the integrity of Philippine waters,” the Navy added.