Authorities seize more than P27.5 million worth of allegedly smuggled cigarettes in Davao Gulf on November 6, 2023. Photo from Bureau of Customs
MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) said around P27.6 million worth of allegedly smuggled cigarettes were intercepted in Davao Gulf.
It said its operatives acted on a tip that a boat would pass in the gulf carrying allegedly smuggled cigarettes.
Hence, with the help of the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, the BOC-Davao hatched an operation and eventually confiscated 717 master cases, containing 35,850 reams of cigarettes, from the boat on November 6. The BOC estimated the value of the seized illegal cigarettes at P27,587,500.00.
The BOC said smuggling is “a grave violation of customs regulations and an evasion of substantial taxes.”
On November 7, BOC District Collector Maritess Martin issued a warrant of seizure and detention against the seized cigarettes and boat.
In September, an estimated P55 million worth of illicit cigarettes were also confiscated by the BOC-Port of Davao. — Adrian Parungao, Reporter
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