STA. MARIA, Davao Occidental – Authorities seized an estimated ₱25.885 million worth of imported cigarettes and arrested two male suspects during a predawn buy-bust operation in Sta. Maria, Davao Occidental, in another major crackdown against the illegal tobacco trade.
The operation was carried out at around 2:30 a.m. in Sitio Bato, Barangay Mamacao by operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Davao Occidental Provincial Field Unit, in coordination with the CIDG Davao del Sur Provincial Field Unit, representatives from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region No. 19, and local territorial police units.
Authorities caught the two suspects while allegedly trading and selling 310 master cases of imported cigarettes that were found to have no Graphic Health Warnings (GHWs) and no BIR tax stamps, both of which are required under Philippine law.
The confiscated shipment was valued at approximately ₱25,885,000.
In addition to the illicit tobacco products, law enforcement officers also seized a wing van truck and a minivan believed to have been used in transporting the illegal cigarettes.
The arrested suspects are expected to face charges for violations of laws governing the sale, distribution, and transport of untaxed and non-compliant tobacco products.
Strengthening the Fight Against Illegal Tobacco
CIDG Director Police Major General Nicolas D. Torre III underscored that the operation reflects the government’s continuing commitment to protecting public health and safeguarding consumers from illicit trade.
“The State protects and promotes the right to health of the people and instills health consciousness among them, while protecting consumers from trade malpractices and substandard tobacco products,” the CIDG chief said.
He emphasized that Republic Act No. 10643, or the Graphic Health Warnings Law, requires all tobacco products sold in the country to bear highly visual, picture-based health warnings on their packaging. The law aims to clearly communicate the serious health risks associated with smoking and discourage tobacco use.
According to authorities, tobacco products lacking the required health warnings and tax stamps undermine public health initiatives while depriving the government of much-needed tax revenues.
Campaign Against Smuggling
Torre also highlighted the significance of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), which seeks to modernize customs administration, improve revenue collection, facilitate legitimate trade, and intensify efforts against smuggling and customs fraud.
He stressed that the law reinforces the government’s mandate to prevent the entry and circulation of smuggled goods while promoting transparency, efficiency, and integrity in customs enforcement.
The latest seizure adds to a growing number of anti-smuggling operations conducted by CIDG and partner agencies across Mindanao, where authorities have intercepted millions of pesos worth of illicit cigarettes in recent months.
Law enforcement officials reiterated their warning to individuals and groups engaged in the illegal tobacco trade that authorities will continue intelligence-driven operations to dismantle smuggling networks, enforce tax and customs laws, and ensure that only legitimate, properly taxed tobacco products are allowed in the Philippine market.