In a swift and coordinated maritime operation, the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) intercepted a motorized banca involved in cigarette smuggling along the shoreline of Tibungco, Davao City, on the evening of February 10, 2025.
Acting on a tip from a concerned citizen, the NFEM, through the Naval Special Operations Unit 7 (NAVSOU7), successfully thwarted the illegal activity as M/B Lady Doy attempted to unload smuggled cigarettes onto a makeshift raft. However, upon arrival at the scene, authorities found that the crew had already fled, abandoning the contraband in an apparent attempt to evade apprehension.
Authorities seized 629 master cases of smuggled cigarettes, which were left behind, with an estimated street value of ₱11 million. NAVSOU7 immediately took control of the vessel and towed it to Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Panacan, Davao City, for further processing.
The confiscated motorized banca and smuggled goods are now under the custody of the Bureau of Customs Region XI, which will conduct further investigations into the smuggling operation. Authorities are also working to identify those responsible for the illicit trade.
This operation underscores the Philippine Navy’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s maritime borders and preventing illegal activities that threaten national security and economic stability. The NFEM continues to bolster its capabilities in line with the Philippine Navy’s 126th-anniversary theme: “Toward a Modern Naval Force Capable of Securing the State and Contributing to Regional Peace.”
