JASAAN, Misamis Oriental — Police authorities confiscated 335 reams of suspected smuggled cigarettes with an estimated retail value of ₱268,000 during an operation against the illegal sale of tobacco products in Jasaan, Misamis Oriental, on August 17, 2026.
Personnel of the Jasaan Municipal Police Station (MPS), in coordination with the Police Intelligence Unit (PIU) of the Misamis Oriental Police Office (MORPO), conducted the operation at around 3:45 p.m. in Purok-3, Lower Jasaan, following information from a concerned citizen regarding the display and alleged sale of suspected smuggled cigarettes in the area.
The operation resulted in the apprehension of a 67-year-old male vendor identified by police as alias “Ino,” a resident of Jasaan, Misamis Oriental.
According to authorities, responding personnel immediately proceeded to the reported location after receiving the information and found assorted brands of suspected smuggled cigarettes displayed at the store.
The inspection led to the seizure of a substantial quantity of cigarettes, with police recording a total of 335 reams consisting of 24 reams of Pragon, 21 reams of Delta, six reams of Milano, 28 reams of Gastorse, nine reams of Cannon Black, nine reams of Fort, 48 reams of Cannon Red, 54 reams of Modern Red, 71 reams of Cannon White, 22 reams of Commando, eight reams of Palacio, four reams of Champion, and 31 reams of Englishman cigarettes.
Authorities said the store owner was also issued a Citation Ticket for violation of Municipal Ordinance No. 122-2019, which prohibits the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products within 100 meters of schools, public playgrounds, and other facilities frequented by minors.
The confiscated cigarettes were brought to the Jasaan MPS for proper documentation and processing. Police said the items will subsequently be turned over to the Rural Health Unit of the Local Government Unit of Jasaan for proper disposition.
The operation underscores the continuing enforcement efforts of police authorities against the circulation and sale of tobacco products suspected to have entered the market through illegal channels. Beyond the potential loss of government revenues associated with illicit trade, authorities have also emphasized the importance of preventing tobacco products from being sold in areas where children and other minors are present.
Police Regional Office 10 Regional Director PBGen Christopher N. Abrahano commended the operating personnel for their vigilance and sustained efforts against the illegal sale and proliferation of suspected smuggled cigarettes.
“We will continue to strengthen our enforcement efforts against the illegal trade of tobacco products and ensure that local ordinances and other applicable laws are strictly implemented. Our personnel are expected to remain vigilant and proactive in protecting our communities, especially our children, from prohibited activities,” Abrahano said.
The police regional office said PRO10 will continue to intensify its campaign against smuggling and other forms of illegal trade, while strengthening coordination with local government units and other partner agencies.
Authorities also urged residents to report suspected illegal activities involving the sale or distribution of smuggled goods, noting that information from concerned citizens can help law enforcement agencies identify and address illicit activities within local communities.
The seized cigarettes remain subject to proper documentation and disposition procedures. The apprehended individual may face appropriate proceedings based on the circumstances established during the operation and the applicable local regulations and laws.