ZAMBOANGA CITY — Authorities arrested two individuals and confiscated 213 reams of suspected smuggled cigarettes during a joint maritime law enforcement operation off Baliwasan Seaside in Zamboanga City on November 7, 2026, as police intensified efforts to curb the illegal tobacco trade in the region.
The operation was conducted at approximately 10:30 a.m. by the Zamboanga City Maritime Police Station (ZC MARPSTA), in coordination with the Headquarters Regional Maritime Unit 9 and Zamboanga City Police Station 13.
Police personnel intercepted a motorized boat carrying two individuals who were transporting various brands of cigarettes. Initial inspection revealed that the cigarette packs did not bear the required Graphic Health Warnings (GHWs), raising concerns over violations of Republic Act No. 10643, or the Graphic Health Warnings Law.
The confiscated cigarettes totaled 213 reams, with an estimated value of approximately ₱250,000, based on the initial assessment of the Bureau of Customs (BOC).
The two arrested individuals, along with the seized tobacco products, were brought to the ZC MARPSTA headquarters for documentation and further investigation.
Authorities said the confiscated cigarettes will undergo official examination and verification by the National Tobacco Administration (NTA) to establish their compliance status and determine the appropriate regulatory action. Following verification, the products are scheduled for turnover to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for proper disposition.
The operation underscores the continuing enforcement efforts of maritime and police authorities against the movement of potentially illicit tobacco products through coastal areas.
Beyond the seizure itself, the absence of mandatory health warnings on the cigarette packaging highlights a regulatory concern involving the distribution of tobacco products that do not comply with Philippine labeling requirements.