GENERAL SANTOS CITY — In a strong show of inter-agency resolve against smuggling and illegal trade, the Police Regional Office 12 (PRO-12) provided security and operational support to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) during the ceremonial condemnation and destruction of confiscated smuggled cigarettes on December 15, 2025, at the General Santos City Sanitary Landfill in Barangay Sinawal.
The destroyed contraband consisted of 1,075 master cases of illegal cigarettes with an estimated value of more than ₱42 million, according to BOC officials. These items were seized during previous law enforcement operations conducted by PRO-12 and were subsequently turned over to the BOC for proper disposition.
To prevent the illegal products from re-entering the market, authorities ensured the cigarettes were completely destroyed through burial and shredding, in accordance with established procedures for the disposal of smuggled goods. Officials emphasized that the method guarantees the permanent removal of the contraband from circulation, protecting both government revenues and public health.
The ceremonial destruction was witnessed by key officials, including PLtCol Aldrin M. Gonzales, Deputy City Director for Operations of the General Santos City Police Office; Nonoy Pareja, Head of the General Santos City Sanitary Landfill; and Ira Leroy R. Sasota of the Commission on Audit–Koronadal City. The activity was led by Angelito L. Agulto, Customs Operations Officer IV of the BOC Sub-Port of General Santos, together with other BOC personnel.
PRO-12 reiterated its firm commitment to sustained collaboration with the Bureau of Customs and other partner agencies in enforcing anti-smuggling laws, curbing illicit trade, and safeguarding public welfare. Officials noted that the successful condemnation highlights the effectiveness of a whole-of-government approach in addressing smuggling and protecting the region from the economic and health risks posed by illegal cigarettes.
Authorities assured the public that operations against smuggling will continue, as law enforcement agencies intensify efforts to dismantle illegal supply chains and hold violators accountable.