Tulunan, Cotabato — Authorities intercepted a shipment of smuggled cigarettes valued at over ₱1.29 million during a joint checkpoint operation along the National Highway in Barangay Sibsib, Tulunan, Cotabato, early Monday morning, April 14.
Personnel from the Tulunan Municipal Police Station, the Provincial Intelligence Unit of Cotabato Police Provincial Office, and the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit launched the coordinated operation at around 1:30 a.m., leading to the arrest of the suspect identified only as “Nas,” 26, a married resident of Purok Everlasting, Barangay New Isabela, Tacurong City.
The suspect, who was driving a white Toyota Hi-Ace Commuter from Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat, bound for Makilala, Cotabato, was flagged down for a routine inspection. Police officers immediately noticed several boxes of cigarettes in plain view inside the vehicle.
A thorough search revealed 33 boxes containing 1,650 reams of assorted cigarette brands including King, Modern, Dunston, New Far, San Antonio, Fort, New Berlin, Champion, Two Moon, and others. The confiscated items are estimated to have a market value of ₱1,296,570.
The seized vehicle and cigarettes will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs in General Santos City for proper disposition. Authorities said the items were found in violation of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, and Republic Act No. 10643, which mandates graphic health warnings on tobacco products.
The operation was conducted in the presence of a Barangay Kagawad from Sibsib and a media representative, ensuring transparency during the inventory process. The suspect is currently detained at the Tulunan Municipal Police Station, while charges are being prepared for filing.
Police Regional Office-12 Regional Director PBGen Arnold P. Ardiente praised the collaboration between law enforcement units and reaffirmed the region’s strong stance against smuggling.
“This accomplishment sends a clear message to those involved in smuggling and other illegal activities — your actions have no place in SOCCSKSARGEN,” Ardiente stated.