BONGAO, Tawi-Tawi — Authorities intercepted and seized dozens of boxes of smuggled cigarettes during a coastal operation conducted by the Philippine Coast Guard in Barangay Pakias, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi on March 7, 2026.
In a report released by the Coast Guard Station Central Tawi-Tawi (CGS CTT), personnel from the Coast Guard Sub-Station Bongao (CGSS Bongao), working in coordination with the Coast Guard Intelligence Force–BARMM (CGIF-BARMM) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group – Southwestern Mindanao/BARMM, successfully confiscated a total of 25 master cases of smuggled cigarettes during the operation.
Authorities said the seized contraband consisted of 10 master cases of San Marino cigarettes and 15 master cases of King cigarettes, believed to have been illegally transported into the province through maritime routes commonly used by smugglers operating in the southern backdoor.
Following the operation, the confiscated cigarettes were properly inventoried and secured before being transported to the headquarters of CGS Central Tawi-Tawi, where they are currently being kept for safekeeping and further documentation.
The Bureau of Customs – Bongao has already been notified of the seizure and is expected to conduct additional assessment and initiate the appropriate legal proceedings in connection with the smuggled goods.
The successful enforcement operation was carried out under the guidance of Rejard V. Marfe, District Commander of the Philippine Coast Guard, who directed personnel to intensify the implementation of maritime laws within the district’s Area of Responsibility (AOR).
Officials emphasized that the operation forms part of the Coast Guard’s ongoing efforts to curb smuggling activities in the southern maritime corridor, which has long been monitored as a potential entry point for illegally imported goods.
The Coast Guard Station Central Tawi-Tawi reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening maritime law enforcement operations to deter smuggling and other illicit activities, while ensuring the safety, security, and order of ports and sea transport systems within its jurisdiction.
Authorities also reiterated the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing illegal trade, particularly in border provinces such as Tawi-Tawi, where maritime routes are frequently exploited by smugglers attempting to bypass customs regulations.