DAVAO CITY — Authorities seized an estimated ₱10 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and arrested three men after intercepting a wing van at a checkpoint in Purok 27, Malagamot, Panacan, Davao City on the afternoon of January 8, 2026.
The operation, conducted jointly by personnel of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), Regional Special Operations Group XI (RSOG-XI), and the Bureau of Customs (BoC) – Port of Davao, took place at around 1:20 p.m. when operatives flagged down a wing van bearing plate number CBP 1560 for routine inspection.
The driver was identified as “Ryan,” 42, married, and a resident of Km. 7, Purok 8, Bangkal, Davao City. Also aboard the vehicle were “Romeo,” 25, single, a driver/helper from Binucayan, Loreto, Agusan del Sur, and “Jiacheng,” 31, single, a warehouse manager residing at Illumina Estates Subdivision, Barangay Communal, Buhangin, Davao City.
During questioning, the driver reportedly admitted that the vehicle was transporting smuggled cigarettes, prompting authorities to order the opening of the van. Upon inspection, the checkpoint team discovered approximately 200 master cases of assorted brands of cigarettes, believed to be smuggled and without proper documentation.
The seized contraband is estimated to be worth ₱10,000,000, according to initial valuation by the Bureau of Customs.
All three suspects were immediately arrested and informed of their rights. They may face charges for violation of Republic Act 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, among other applicable laws.
The confiscated cigarettes are now under the custody of the Bureau of Customs – Port of Davao for proper disposition, while further investigation is underway to identify possible links to larger smuggling syndicates.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to intensifying operations against smuggling activities, stressing that the illegal trade of cigarettes not only deprives the government of revenue but also poses risks to public health and security.