DAVAO CITY — The Davao City Police Office (DCPO) scored a major victory against the illegal cigarette trade after confiscating more than ₱305,000 worth of smuggled and illicit tobacco products in a series of coordinated operations across the city from January 15 to 16, 2026.
The intensified campaign, anchored on the Philippine National Police’s anti-illegal trade drive and guided by the D.A.V.A.O. Framework — Discipline, Action, Virtue, Accountability, and Order, resulted in nine successful anti-smuggling operations conducted by various police stations under the leadership of Police Colonel Mannan Caracas Muarip.
Authorities said the operations specifically targeted individuals and groups engaged in the street-level reselling of smuggled cigarettes, particularly in public markets, commercial centers, and other high-foot-traffic areas, effectively disrupting the supply chain from distribution to retail.
Police seized assorted illicit cigarettes and other smuggled goods valued at ₱305,059.00, dealing a significant blow to illegal trade networks operating within the city.
“Illicit trade robs the government of vital revenues, endangers public health, and fuels other criminal activities,” Muarip said. “These successful operations demonstrate DCPO’s unwavering resolve to protect our community and uphold the rule of law.”
The DCPO emphasized that the campaign was carried out with strict adherence to existing laws and regulations governing the sale and distribution of tobacco products. All seizures were conducted professionally and within legal bounds, with proper documentation and case build-up now underway in coordination with concerned government agencies for the filing of appropriate charges against those involved.
Police said the sustained operations curtailed the circulation of untaxed and illegally sourced cigarettes commonly sold in open and crowded areas, reinforcing the city’s commitment to lawful commerce and public safety.
The DCPO assured the public that it will remain relentless in its fight against all forms of illegal activities through sustained operations, strengthened inter-agency cooperation, and active community partnership, as it continues to embody the D.A.V.A.O. Framework.
“With Discipline in enforcement, swift Action in operations, Virtue in conduct, Accountability in process, and Order in our communities, we are determined to keep Davao City safe, lawful, and economically protected,” the DCPO said.