Maasim, Sarangani – January 14, 2026 – Authorities intercepted a vehicle carrying suspected smuggled cigarettes during a checkpoint operation along the National Highway in Sitio Seguil, Barangay Tinoto, Maasim, resulting in the confiscation of over P933,000 worth of contraband.
At approximately 4:40 PM, personnel of the 2nd Sarangani Provincial Mobile Force Company (SPMFC) reported the incident to Maasim Municipal Police Station (MPS), prompting a joint inspection with representatives from the Bureau of Customs (BOC). The operation flagged down a white Isuzu Elf truck, plate number GGN 280, traveling toward General Santos City.
Inside the vehicle, authorities discovered 1,091 reams of President Filter King cigarettes. The driver, identified as “Ron-Ron,” 41, a married resident of Rio Hondo, Zamboanga City, failed to present any legal documents for the cargo. His companion, “Abner,” 19, a single fisherman from Barangay Linguisan, Zamboanga Sibugay, was also apprehended.
The confiscated cigarettes, with an estimated market value of P933,546.88, along with the truck used for transport, have been turned over to the BOC for documentation and proper disposition.
The suspects are now in the custody of Maasim MPS, facing charges for violation of Republic Act 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act) in relation to RA 12022, which covers smuggling and illegal trade.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to crack down on smuggling operations and urged the public to report suspicious activities that undermine lawful trade and revenue collection.