DAVAO DE ORO, Philippines — The Philippine Navy has seized an estimated ₱44 million worth of undocumented cigarettes during a maritime patrol operation off the coast of Davao de Oro, dealing a major blow to large-scale smuggling activities in Eastern Mindanao.
In a statement, the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) said the interception took place at around 7:40 p.m. on January 15, 2026, approximately three nautical miles northwest of Pantukan, Davao de Oro, while naval personnel from the 3rd Boat Attack Division were conducting a routine maritime patrol.
Using its Mini-Typhoon Maritime Gun System (MGS) camera, the patrol unit detected a suspicious motorboat covered with canvas, raising red flags for possible illegal cargo. The vessel was later intercepted and identified as M/B QAISAR.
Upon boarding and inspection, naval forces discovered 1,118 master cases of undocumented cigarettes concealed onboard. Authorities estimated the value of the contraband at ₱44 million, making it one of the significant cigarette smuggling interdictions in the region this year.
The motorboat was manned by 13 Filipino crew members, all of whom were taken into custody for questioning. During the interview, the vessel’s master admitted that the cigarettes originated from Jolo, Sulu, and were intended to be transferred to smaller motor bancas for distribution in nearby coastal municipalities in Mindanao.
NFEM said the transport and possession of the cigarettes violated Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act of 2016, in relation to Executive Order No. 245, which governs the exportation and importation of leaf tobacco and tobacco products.
Following standard operating procedures, M/B QAISAR and the seized cigarettes were escorted to Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Davao City, where the vessel and contraband were formally turned over to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) for proper disposition and the filing of appropriate charges.
NFEM emphasized that the successful operation highlights the Navy’s sustained maritime security patrols and its commitment to curbing smuggling, protecting government revenues, and safeguarding the country’s maritime domain.
“The interception underscores the critical role of constant naval presence and surveillance in preventing illegal trade activities at sea,” NFEM said, adding that intensified patrols will continue across Eastern Mindanao waters to deter smugglers and other maritime threats.