NBI charges 3 for fake cigarettes

MANILA, Philippines–Agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) have arrested and filed charges against three suspects caught selling fake cigarettes in Taboan and Ermita in Cebu City.

Arrested were Carissa Mae A. Juanico of P. Burgos St., Alang-Alang, Mandaue City; Glenn L. Suquib of 105 Cabantan St., Mabolo, Cebu City, and Kevin M. Takiao of Barangay Gun-ob, Lapu-Lapu City.

The three, who were charged by Cebu City Prosecutor Maria Luisa Ratilla with violating Republic Act No. 8293, the Trademark Infringement and Unfair Competition Law, were caught selling fake Mighty cigarettes.

NBI Regional Director Ricardo A. Diaz said the suspects were arrested while trying to sell 11 cartons of counterfeit Mighty cigarettes to NBI agents who posed as buyers.

In the NBI’s complaint to the city fiscal, Diaz said the buy-bust operation was conducted at 8 p.m. on Feb. 24 in Barangay (village) San Nicolas, Cebu City.

Juanico was arrested after receiving marked money for the 11 cartons of fake cigarettes. Suquib and Takiao were arrested after they arrived in a taxi with the fake cigarettes.

Cases against the suspects have been filed before Cebu City Regional Trial Court Branch II Judge Ramon Daomilas, who recommended P40,000 bail for each suspect.