PIGCAWAYAN, Cotabato — Authorities seized an estimated ₱234,954.20 worth of smuggled cigarettes and arrested two individuals during a checkpoint operation conducted by the 1203rd Maneuver Company (MC), Regional Mobile Force Battalion 12 (RMFB-12) in Barangay Payong-payong, Pigcawayan, early Monday morning, January 26, 2026.
The seizure took place at around 5:20 a.m. when personnel manning the checkpoint flagged down a gray Suzuki APV (plate number LGC 607) carrying assorted cargo. Initial investigation revealed that the vehicle allegedly originated from Malabang, Lanao del Norte and was bound for Pikit, Cotabato.
Upon inspection, authorities discovered several reams of cigarettes packed in cellophane packaging. Further verification showed that the items were suspected to be smuggled and lacked the necessary documents required under Philippine law.
Due to the absence of valid documentation, the occupants of the vehicle were arrested for transporting, possessing, and attempting to distribute smuggled cigarettes. The suspects were identified as alias “Ebs,” 25, the driver and a resident of Pikit, Cotabato, and alias “Nor,” 30, married, who served as the helper and is also a resident of Pikit.
Confiscated during the operation were the following items, with corresponding Bureau of Customs (BOC) estimated market values:
- Two (2) boxes and 24 reams of cigarettes – ₱97,439.00
- Two (2) boxes and 29 reams of Fort brand cigarettes – ₱101,368.20
- 44 reams of New Berlin brand cigarettes – ₱34,575.20
- Two (2) reams of Far brand cigarettes – ₱1,570.60
The total estimated BOC market value of the seized cigarettes amounted to ₱234,954.20.
Authorities said all confiscated items, including the vehicle used in transporting the illegal goods, will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs for proper documentation and disposition.
The suspects are currently detained at the Pigcawayan Municipal Police Station and will face charges for violation of Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act) and violation of the Graphic Health Warning Law.
The operation was carried out by the 1203rd MC, RMFB-12, led by PCPT Arman M. Pascua, Officer-in-Charge, under the supervision of PLTCOL Argel N. Ancheta, Acting Force Commander of RMFB-12. Authorities reiterated their commitment to strengthening checkpoint operations to combat smuggling and protect public health and government revenue.