MIDSAYAP, Cotabato – Authorities seized an estimated ₱5.8 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and arrested four individuals during a joint law enforcement operation conducted in Barangay Sadaan, Midsayap on May 14, 2025.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Benhur Gorosin Catcatan, chief of the Midsayap Municipal Police Station, identified the arrested suspects as: alias “Jerric,” 24, driver; “Jomar,” 24, helper—both residents of Kawayanon, Makilala, Cotabato; “Alvin,” 19, driver, from Barangay Concepcion, Makilala; and alias “Jay,” helper, from Barangay San Vicente, Makilala.
The anti-smuggling operation was carried out around 10:30 AM by the combined forces of the Regional Intelligence Division 12 (RID12), Midsayap MPS, 2nd Cotabato Provincial Mobile Force Company (2nd CPMFC), Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU-CPPO), and the North Cotabato Highway Patrol Team (NCPHPT).
Two vehicles loaded with smuggled cigarettes were intercepted while en route to Kabacan, Cotabato.
Authorities found 38 boxes and 600 reams of “Cigarette Fort” worth ₱1,493,020 and ₱471,480 respectively inside a white and blue utility vehicle. In a separate white dropside truck, they confiscated 60 boxes of “Cigarette Berlin” valued at ₱2,357,400 and 40 boxes of “Cigarette Fort” worth ₱1,571,600.
The total estimated market value of the confiscated contraband was pegged at ₱5,893,500.
The suspects are currently under the custody of Midsayap MPS and will face charges for violating Republic Act No. 10643, or the Graphic Health Warning Law.
Police Colonel Gilberto B. Tuzon, Provincial Director of the Cotabato Police Provincial Office, issued a stern warning against individuals involved in illegal trade.
“We will not stop in our efforts to suppress illegal activities that weaken our economy and endanger public health. Those who continue with these operations will face the full force of the law,” Tuzon said.
Authorities also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help maintain peace, order, and safety in their communities.