Cabanglasan, Bukidnon – In a decisive operation on November 22, 2024, Cabanglasan Municipal Police Station (MPS) apprehended a 45-year-old man allegedly involved in cigarette smuggling activities at Purok 15, Barangay Iba.
The suspect, known by the alias “Dodong,” is a Bao-Bao driver and resident of Purok 4, Barangay Lumbo, Valencia City, Bukidnon. He was caught red-handed selling smuggled cigarettes at a local store. Upon inspection of his parked green TVS King Tricab, officers discovered several reams of smuggled cigarettes that lacked the necessary business permits and Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) seals.
The confiscated items included:
- 50 reams of Commando cigarettes,
- 46 reams of Fort cigarettes,
- 15 reams of King cigarettes.
The total market value of the seized items is estimated at ₱42,000.
The suspect is facing charges for violations of Section 10 of Republic Act No. 10643, also known as the Graphic Health Warning Law, and Presidential Decree No. 1464, or the Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines. The confiscated items and vehicle will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs for appropriate action.
Police Regional Office 10 (PRO10) Regional Director, PBGEN Jaysen C. De Guzman, lauded the operatives for their swift and efficient action.
“We assure the public of our commitment to combating smuggling and other illegal activities in the region. I commend the operating team and encourage the community to report any unlawful activities to the nearest police station,” De Guzman stated.
Authorities continue to intensify efforts against smuggling to ensure public safety and uphold the law in Northern Mindanao.
