Customs, PNP seize P21.6-M smuggled cigarettes in Albay

Law enforcement agencies seize P21.6 million worth of undocumented cigarettes in a motor banca in Pio Duran, Albay on Nov. 21, 2024. —Photos from the Bureau of Customs

MANILA, Philippines — Law enforcement agencies intercepted a motor banca and seized P21.6 million worth of undocumented cigarettes in Pio Duran town in Albay province, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) announced on Saturday.

The BOC, with the Philippine National Police Maritime Group as well as its Bicol Region and Ligao City field units, found 377 cases of cigarettes valued at P21,602,100 aboard a boat by the waters of Barangay Marigondon on November 21.

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“Initial inspections revealed that the cigarette packages lacked a revenue seal, a clear evidence that the corresponding taxes due to the government were not paid,” Customs explained in its Saturday statement.

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Authorities arrested nine individuals who were on the boat and unable to present any legal documents for the goods.

Customs stated that smuggling cigarettes violated sections of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, tobacco regulations outlined in Executive Order No. 245, and the National Internal Revenue Code.

“This operation underscores our relentless commitment to combating the illicit trade of cigarettes and dismantling the nefarious activities of smuggling networks,” BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said.

“This success comes from strong collaboration with law enforcement agencies, which is essential for protecting legitimate trade and safeguarding public revenue from the detrimental effects of smuggling,” he added.