Davao City, June 9, 2025 — The Philippine Navy intercepted a motorized banca carrying approximately ₱20 million worth of suspected undocumented foreign-brand cigarettes near Dumoy Point, Davao City, in a maritime operation that underscores the military’s continued efforts to secure the country’s coastal borders.
On June 7, 2025, the BRP Herminigildo Yurong (PG906), under the operational control of Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao’s Naval Task Force 71, was conducting a routine patrol when it spotted a suspicious motorized banca unloading boxes onto the shoreline. As the Navy vessel approached, individuals aboard the smaller craft were observed hastily offloading the cargo before fleeing the scene.
A boarding team from PG906 conducted an inspection and identified the boat as M/B Sharefa. Onboard, they discovered around 800 master cases of undocumented foreign-brand cigarettes, believed to have been smuggled into the country, with a total estimated market value of ₱20 million.
The vessel was secured and towed from the shallow waters with the help of the Naval Special Operations Unit 7. It was later escorted to Naval Station Felix Apolinario (NSFA) in Panacan, Davao City.
The seized contraband and the watercraft were formally turned over to appropriate authorities upon arrival at Captain Feranil Pier, NSFA, on June 8.
In a statement, the Philippine Navy reaffirmed its commitment to addressing maritime challenges, promoting regional stability, and strengthening maritime security in the country’s eastern seaboard.
Authorities have yet to identify the individuals responsible, and an investigation is underway.