CAMP ALAGAR, Cagayan de Oro City (May 27, 2025) — Police Regional Office 10 (PRO-10) successfully intercepted a total of ₱87,200 worth of smuggled cigarettes in separate checkpoint operations in Misamis Oriental and Bukidnon, as part of its intensified campaign against illegal trading and smuggling.
In Misamis Oriental, personnel from the Alubijid Municipal Police Station conducted a checkpoint operation along the national highway in Purok 2, Barangay Poblacion, Alubijid. A vehicle coming from Laguindingan Airport abruptly accelerated and breached the checkpoint in an apparent attempt to evade inspection.
Police immediately initiated a pursuit and intercepted the vehicle in Purok 6 of the same barangay. Upon inspection, authorities discovered 620 packs of Modern Cigarettes and 270 packs of Cannon Cigarettes, with a combined estimated value of ₱71,200.
The driver, identified as alias “Kai,” 23, a resident of Barangay Lumbo, Alubijid, was arrested on the spot. The suspect, along with the seized items and vehicle, was turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for further investigation and legal action.
Meanwhile, in Bukidnon, Damulog Municipal Police Station personnel responded to a report from a concerned citizen regarding a suspicious sack along the roadside near a checkpoint in Barangay Old Damulog. Upon inspection, police recovered 20 reams of assorted smuggled cigarette brands, including D Monte, B&R, Vision, Lucky 7, VX, and San Marino, valued at approximately ₱16,000. The items were brought to the Damulog police station for proper documentation and disposition.
PBGEN Jaysen C. De Guzman, Regional Director of PRO-10, praised the efforts of the operating units in both locations.
“PRO-10 remains steadfast in protecting our borders and local economies against the threats of smuggling. I commend the officers of Alubijid and Damulog MPS for their professionalism, vigilance, and swift response. These operations demonstrate the effectiveness of well-coordinated checkpoint activities and the vital role of community cooperation,” he said.
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the integrity of checkpoints and called on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may contribute to the proliferation of smuggled goods in the region.