ZAMBOANGA CITY — Authorities intensified their campaign against the illegal cigarette trade after operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), in coordination with the Bureau of Customs Region 9 (BOC-9) and territorial police units, intercepted nearly P3.85 million worth of alleged smuggled imported cigarettes during a law enforcement operation in Barangay Arena Blanco, Zamboanga City.
The operation, conducted on May 15, 2026 from around 4:40 p.m. to 7:08 p.m., resulted in the arrest of a male suspect identified only by his alias “Basi,” a married adult male, for alleged violation of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).
Authorities confiscated 26 master cases of imported cigarettes with an estimated value of P3,847,450.88. According to CIDG reports, the suspect was allegedly caught in possession of, and transporting, imported tobacco products without the necessary permits and supporting documents required under Philippine customs and tariff laws.
Investigators said the suspect failed to present proof authorizing him to possess, transport, distribute, or sell the imported cigarettes. He likewise allegedly failed to provide evidence that customs duties and excise taxes had been properly paid, prompting authorities to confiscate the shipment and pursue legal action.
The operation was carried out in line with intensified government efforts to suppress cigarette smuggling and economic sabotage nationwide under directives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the leadership of the Philippine National Police.
CIDG Director PMGEN Robert AA Morico II stressed that Republic Act No. 10863 seeks to modernize and strengthen customs and tariff administration in order to improve revenue collection, facilitate legitimate trade, and crack down on smuggling and customs fraud.
Authorities emphasized that cigarette smuggling continues to inflict heavy losses on government revenues because illegal importers evade customs duties and excise or “sin” taxes imposed on tobacco products. Officials also warned that the illegal trade undermines legitimate businesses and weakens public health programs funded by tobacco taxation.
The CIDG leadership commended CIDG Regional Field Unit 9 headed by PCOL Rosell DM Encarnacion, the CIDG Zamboanga City Field Unit under PLTCOL Aurelio S. Domingo, personnel of BOC-9, and participating joint operatives for the successful operation.
Officials said the seizure demonstrates the government’s continuing crackdown on illegal tobacco trading networks operating across the country.
The CIDG also assured the public that it remains relentless in enforcing laws against smuggling and in pursuing individuals and groups involved in the illegal manufacture, transport, and distribution of smuggled cigarettes nationwide.