Lebak, Sultan Kudarat – In a determined effort to combat the illegal trade of counterfeit goods, authorities intercepted and seized Php 1,807,340.00 worth of illicit cigarettes during a checkpoint operation along the National Highway in Purok Acacia 2A, Barangay Poblacion 3, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat on February 9, 2025.
The successful operation was conducted under the leadership of Police Regional Office 12’s Regional Director, PBGEN Arnold P. Ardiente. Personnel from the Lebak Municipal Police Station, 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company of the Sultan Kudarat Police Provincial Office, and the Regional Intelligence Division 12, in coordination with the Bureau of Customs 12, carried out the interception.
Authorities flagged down two suspicious minivans—a gray and a maroon vehicle—traveling towards Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat. Upon inspection, officers discovered 46 boxes containing 2,300 reams of Berlin Red Cigarettes, which were being transported without the necessary documentation.
The drivers of the vehicles were identified as alias “Tatoy,” a 22-year-old married resident, and alias “Nani,” an 18-year-old single resident, both from Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao del Sur. Both suspects were immediately arrested after failing to present required legal documents for the transported goods.
The confiscated cigarettes and the suspects were taken to the Lebak Municipal Police Station for further investigation and proper documentation. A formal complaint for violating Republic Act 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, is being prepared against the individuals involved.
Regional Director PBGEN Ardiente reiterated the importance of eradicating the illegal cigarette trade, stating, “Stand with our nation—choose locally made, legally produced products. The illegal cigarette trade doesn’t just steal vital government revenue—it jeopardizes the health and safety of every citizen. Together, we can put an end to this threat and protect our future.”
Police Regional Office 12 continues to intensify its operations against smuggling and other illicit activities, underscoring its commitment to ensuring a safer and more lawful environment for the public.
“Service Beyond Our Badge: Alternative Policing Approach.”
