Basilan, Philippines — The Western Mindanao Naval Command (WMNC) successfully intercepted a fishing vessel carrying ₱17.5 million worth of smuggled foreign cigarettes during a maritime patrol operation off Basilan early morning on October 20, 2025.
Naval personnel, while conducting routine patrol operations, spotted a suspicious fishing boat with covered cargo. Upon inspection, authorities discovered that the vessel, identified as F/B Guess, was loaded with 300 master cases of undocumented foreign-brand cigarettes.
The vessel, owned by Alhamin Bandahala of Jolo, Sulu, was crewed by eight individuals, none of whom could present legal documents for their cargo.
Following a joint inventory, authorities estimated the total value of the seized contraband — including the fishing boat and its accompanying mini-boat — at ₱17,509,060.00.
The confiscated goods and vessels were immediately turned over to the Bureau of Customs–Port of Zamboanga (BOC-POZ) at Naval Station Romulo Espaldon for proper disposition and investigation.
The operation marks another major victory in the ongoing campaign against smuggling in Western Mindanao, showcasing the Navy’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding Philippine waters and enforcing maritime laws.