POLOMOLOK, South Cotabato — Authorities uncovered suspected smuggled cigarettes worth ₱1,237,635 during an operation at a warehouse facility in Polomolok on Tuesday afternoon, October 21, 2025.
At around 12:45 p.m., personnel from the Polomolok Municipal Police Station responded to a report about several suspicious packages stored in a warehouse. Upon inspection, they discovered a total of fifty-two (52) packages, one of which was damaged and revealed twenty-five (25) reams of Cannon Menthol 100’s cigarettes, believed to be smuggled items.
Initial investigation showed that the packages were tagged with multiple sender and receiver details, indicating distribution points within South Cotabato and nearby cities.
The total market value of the seized goods was estimated at ₱1,237,635. Police have already coordinated with the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for proper documentation, evaluation, and legal disposition of the confiscated items.
Authorities are now conducting a thorough investigation to identify the individuals or groups behind the smuggling activity and to determine the origin and intended destinations of the goods.
Polomolok Police Chief PLTCOL Harold V. Cornel reiterated that smuggling and the distribution of untaxed cigarettes are serious offenses that rob the government of lawful tax revenues and harm legitimate local businesses. He urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious trading or transport of smuggled goods to law enforcement agencies.
“This operation underscores our firm commitment to suppress smuggling and all forms of illegal trade in Polomolok,” PLTCOL Cornel emphasized.