KALILANGAN, Bukidnon — Authorities intercepted and seized an estimated ₱1.2 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during a checkpoint operation along a key border control point in Bukidnon on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, leading to the arrest of a truck driver suspected of transporting illegal goods.
Personnel from the 1004th Maneuver Company (1004th MC) of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10 (RMFB 10), in coordination with the Bukidnon Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU) and the Kalilangan Municipal Police Station (MPS), carried out the operation at the Regional Border Control Point (RBCP) in Barangay Pamotolon.
Authorities identified the suspect only as alias “Ali,” a 25-year-old married truck driver and resident of Bayang, Lanao del Sur.
According to reports, law enforcement units were conducting intensified checkpoint inspections when they received intelligence information about a Foton truck allegedly transporting smuggled cigarettes from Wao, Lanao del Sur, en route to Maramag, Bukidnon.
Acting on the tip, operatives flagged down the vehicle at the checkpoint and requested the driver to present his driver’s license and allow inspection of the truck’s cargo. The driver reportedly complied without resistance.
Upon inspection, authorities discovered multiple cases of cigarettes concealed inside the vehicle. When asked to present the necessary documents for the shipment, the driver failed to produce any proof of legal transport and later admitted that the cargo consisted of smuggled cigarettes.
The operation resulted in the confiscation of 30 cases of Commando White cigarettes with a total estimated market value of ₱1,200,000.
The suspect was immediately placed under custody and brought to the Kalilangan MPS for proper documentation and the filing of appropriate charges.
Meanwhile, authorities coordinated with the Bureau of Customs Region 10 for the turnover and proper disposition of the seized contraband and the impounded vehicle.
Police Brigadier General Christopher N. Abrahano, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 10, lauded the operating units for their swift and coordinated response, emphasizing the importance of sustained checkpoint operations in curbing smuggling activities in Northern Mindanao.
“This successful operation highlights the effectiveness of strengthened border control measures and inter-agency coordination in combating illegal trade,” Abrahano said.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to intensify operations against smuggling networks, noting that such illicit activities not only deprive the government of revenue but also undermine legitimate businesses.