Davao City, Philippines — A joint entrapment operation on November 19, 2024, led to the confiscation of ₱2.5 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and the arrest of two suspects at Jomat Building, JP Laurel Avenue, Barangay Angliongto, Davao City.
The operation stemmed from a transaction in which the suspects sold two master cases of Gold City brand cigarettes to an undercover operative in exchange for ₱26,000 in marked money. Authorities subsequently uncovered an additional 48 master cases of assorted cigarette brands at the site.
The suspects now face charges for violating Republic Act (R.A.) 10643, the Graphic Health Warnings Law, and R.A. 12022, an act against smuggling.
PRO 11 Regional Director, PBGEN Leon Victor Z. Rosete, praised the collaboration among law enforcement units, including the Regional Special Operation Group 11 (RSOG 11), City Special Operation Group (CSOG), Sasa Police Station (PS4), and Davao City Police Office (DCPO), along with support from the Japan Tobacco Industry.
“This successful operation demonstrates our commitment to eradicating illegal activities like smuggling that undermine public health and harm local industries. I commend all units involved for their dedication and professionalism,” said PBGEN Rosete.
The operation aligns with the directive of PNP Chief PGEN Rommel Francisco D. Marbil to intensify efforts against counterfeit and smuggled cigarettes, which threaten the livelihoods of local tobacco farmers and pose health risks to the public.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and order in the Davao Region, calling on the community to report suspicious activities and join the fight against smuggling.
