Makilala, Cotabato — Police intercepted 600 reams of smuggled cigarettes worth more than ₱427,000 and arrested a 24-year-old driver during a joint checkpoint operation in Barangay San Vicente on November 17.
The suspect was identified as Jerric Albarico, a resident of Barangay Kawayanon, Makilala.
According to Makilala Municipal Police Station (MPS), the checkpoint was conducted around 11:00 a.m. in coordination with Regional Intelligence Unit 12 under the Intensified Unified Anti-Criminality Program.
Police flagged down a white Navarra pickup (Plate No. LAG9517) driven by Albarico, but instead of stopping, the driver allegedly attempted to evade the checkpoint. Operatives quickly intercepted the vehicle.
Authorities discovered that the vehicle’s documents were already expired. A plain-view inspection revealed multiple boxes of alleged smuggled cigarettes.
Seized items include:
- 69 pcs New Far Red Filter
- 50 pcs White Fort
- 25 pcs Black Fort
- 100 pcs Cannon Menthol
- 49 pcs San Marino King Size
- 253 pcs New Berlin
Initial investigation showed the cigarettes originated from Cotabato City and were intended for delivery to Datu Paglas, Maguindanao del Sur. The suspect claimed he was merely instructed to transport the items using a rented vehicle.
All confiscated contraband was brought to Makilala MPS for proper disposition, while coordination with the Bureau of Customs is underway for custody and valuation.
Albarico was informed of his rights and taken to the custodial facility following a medical examination. He is facing charges for violating RA 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
Authorities continue to investigate the smuggling operation as police intensify their campaign against illicit trade and other criminal activities in Cotabato province.