Authorities seized more than ₱4.2 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during a police checkpoint operation in Barangay Bacayawan, Malabang, Lanao del Sur, on February 15, 2026.
Personnel from Police Regional Office Bangsamoro (PRO BAR), under the Philippine National Police (PNP), conducted the anti-criminality checkpoint when they flagged down a truck and discovered 100 boxes of illegally imported cigarettes.
According to the Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office, the contraband had an estimated market value of ₱4,278,000. Two individuals found in possession of and transporting the smuggled goods were immediately arrested.
The suspects, along with the seized cigarettes, were brought to the Malabang Municipal Police Station for documentation and investigation. Authorities said the items will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs (Philippines) for proper disposition and further legal proceedings.
PRO BAR Regional Director Jaysen C. De Guzman commended the operating units for their swift and coordinated action, saying the successful operation reflects the police force’s strong commitment to fighting illegal trade.
“This accomplishment highlights our continuous efforts, in partnership with other agencies, to combat smuggling and strictly enforce national laws across the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao,” De Guzman said.
Police officials stressed that smuggling deprives the government of much-needed revenue and poses risks to public health and safety. They reaffirmed their resolve to intensify checkpoint operations and intelligence-driven activities to curb illegal trade in the region.
An inquest and appropriate charges are being prepared against the arrested individuals for violations of customs and related laws. Authorities also encouraged the public to report suspicious activities to help strengthen the campaign against smuggling and other forms of organized crime.