San Martin, Villanueva, Misamis Oriental | July 23, 2025 — In a swift and coordinated operation, authorities from the Opol Municipal Police Station and the Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU) of the Misamis Oriental Police Provincial Office intercepted a cache of smuggled cigarettes worth an estimated ₱880,000 in Zone 7A, Youngsville Subdivision, Barangay Igpit, Opol on July 22.
Acting on reliable information from a concerned citizen, law enforcers led by PMAJ Teodoro P. De Oro and PLTCOL Reynaldo P. Sandigan responded to a report at 2:58 PM about a suspicious unloading activity in the area. Upon arrival, the police witnessed several unidentified individuals engaged in unusual movements. However, the suspects quickly fled the scene upon noticing police presence.
With the assistance of Barangay Councilor Roy C. Fabria, the authorities conducted a search and discovered boxes of suspected smuggled cigarettes near a brown Toyota Revo (Plate No. XNT 684) parked in an open area. The operation resulted in the confiscation of the following items:
- 400 rims of Cannon (white, menthol) cigarettes
- 150 rims of Delta (red) cigarettes
- One Toyota Revo, brown, Plate No. XNT 684
- One spare tire
The seized cigarettes have an estimated street value of ₱880,000.
Police are continuing their investigation to identify and apprehend the individuals behind the smuggling operation. Authorities emphasized that this successful seizure forms part of the PNP’s intensified campaign against smuggling and other forms of economic sabotage, in line with Republic Act 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
“We are deeply grateful for the trust and cooperation of the public who continue to provide accurate information that leads to successful operations like this,” said PCOL Wilbur M. Salaguste, Provincial Director of the Misamis Oriental Police Provincial Office. “This is a significant win in our ongoing fight against illegal trade and economic deception. We assure the people of Misamis Oriental that we will sustain relentless efforts to curb illegal activities and protect the province’s security and economy.”
Authorities are calling on the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting the campaign by reporting any suspicious activity to law enforcement.