Jolo, Sulu — A routine port security and cargo inspection by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) led to the discovery of approximately ₱840,000 worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes inside a passenger vessel docked at the Port of Jolo on December 28, 2025.
Joint personnel from Coast Guard Station (CGS) Western Sulu, Coast Guard Sub-Station Jolo, and the PCG K9 Unit—Sulu conducted the inspection aboard MV Antonia 1, operated by Alesson Shipping Company and bound for Zamboanga City. Their inspection began at around 6:49 p.m. as part of continuous efforts to tighten maritime security and ensure that all cargoes transported within the province comply with legal documentation.
During the operation, authorities uncovered the contraband concealed inside 13 assorted food and beverage cartons and one traveling bag. The items were discreetly loaded aboard the vessel without any bill of lading or accompanying shipping papers.
MV Antonia 1 crew members denied ownership of the cargo and claimed no knowledge of who shipped the items.
An initial inventory revealed that the seized items consisted of Greenhill-branded cigarettes totaling 348 reams — equivalent to seven master cases of illicit tobacco products.
The confiscated cigarettes were immediately secured for proper documentation and turnover to customs authorities in Sulu for further investigation and appropriate legal action.
The PCG emphasized that the successful interdiction reflects its unwavering commitment to enforce maritime and customs laws, protect Philippine ports from illegal activities, and uphold national security across the country’s waters.