DAMULOG, Bukidnon — Authorities confiscated an estimated ₱2.52 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and arrested two individuals during a coordinated checkpoint operation at the Regional Border Control Point in Barangay Omonay, Damulog, Bukidnon on January 22, 2026.
The operation was carried out by personnel of the 1003rd Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10 (RMFB10) in coordination with the Damulog Municipal Police Station, Bukidnon Provincial Intelligence Team, Provincial Highway Patrol Team–Bukidnon, the 2nd Bukidnon Provincial Mobile Force Company, and the 1004th Maneuver Company, RMFB10.
Police flagged down an Elf van traveling from Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat toward Cagayan de Oro City. The vehicle was driven by alias “Al,” 54, married, a resident of Jose Dalman, Zamboanga del Norte, with alias “Renz,” 21, single, and a resident of Sirawai, Zamboanga del Norte, acting as truck helper.
During inspection, the driver failed to present a valid driver’s license. When authorities requested the opening of the cargo compartment, they discovered 63 master cases of Canon White cigarettes in plain view, stacked inside the vehicle without the required government health warning stickers, prompting the immediate arrest of both occupants.
Further investigation revealed that the driver continued operating the vehicle despite his license having been previously confiscated due to a traffic violation.
The suspects, along with the seized cigarettes and the vehicle, were brought to the Damulog Municipal Police Station for documentation. The confiscated items will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs in Tagoloan for proper disposition.
PBGEN Christopher N. Abrahano, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 10, commended the swift and coordinated action of the operating units.
“The successful seizure and arrest highlight the vigilance and strong coordination of our operating units. These intensified border checkpoint operations are vital in preventing the entry of contraband and upholding the rule of law. PRO10 remains committed to strengthening border security and protecting the communities we serve,” Abrahano said.