ZAMBOANGA CITY — Naval forces under the Western Mindanao Naval Command (WESTMINCOM) intercepted a total of ₱56 million worth of smuggled goods in two consecutive maritime patrol and intelligence-driven operations off the waters of Tawi-Tawi and Sulu on November 28 and 29, 2025.
In Simandagit Point, Tawi-Tawi, authorities stopped MV FIYYAH, a vessel reportedly coming from Malaysia, carrying 27,000 sacks of rice and 12,828 assorted packs of foodstuff and consumer goods worth ₱35,878,869.
The ship’s crew failed to present any legal documents for the cargo, prompting naval personnel to immediately apprehend the vessel and its occupants. MV FIYYAH was towed to Bongao Port, where the shipment was formally turned over to the Bureau of Customs–Tawi-Tawi for proper documentation and filing of charges.
A day later, in the waters off Dipolod Island, Tongkil, Sulu, naval forces intercepted M/B NURSHAIMA, which was found carrying 350 master cases of smuggled cigarettes valued at ₱20,355,000.
The vessel, its crew, and all seized goods were brought to Naval Station Romulo Espaldon for turnover to the National Bureau of Investigation–WEMRO9 and PDEA for further documentation and case filing.
Authorities lauded the coordinated maritime efforts that led to the successful operations, emphasizing that the Navy remains committed to curbing smuggling activities that harm the country’s economy and security.