KALILANGAN, Bukidnon — The Philippine National Police in Northern Mindanao scored another major blow against smuggling operations after seizing an estimated ₱1.5 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during a checkpoint operation in Barangay Malinao, Kalilangan, Bukidnon on December 23, 2025.
Police Regional Office 10 (PRO-10) Regional Director PBGEN Christopher N. Abrahano lauded the swift and coordinated action of the 1004th Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10, working jointly with the Bukidnon Provincial Intelligence Unit and the Kalilangan Municipal Police Station.
Intercepted during the operation was a Suzuki Traviz van traveling from Amai Manabilang, Lanao del Sur, and bound for Lantapan, Bukidnon. Upon thorough inspection, authorities discovered 30 cases of “Commando” cigarettes concealed beneath a mattress inside the vehicle, indicating a deliberate attempt to evade detection.
Police conducted proper inventory and marking of the seized items at the scene in the presence of a barangay kagawad to ensure transparency and strict compliance with standard operating procedures. The suspects were informed of their constitutional rights under the Miranda Doctrine, while the entire arrest and seizure process was documented through video recording.
The confiscated cigarettes, along with the seized vehicle, will be formally turned over to the Bureau of Customs–Tagoloan in Misamis Oriental for proper disposition and the filing of appropriate charges.
Authorities said the successful interception highlights the PNP’s intensified campaign against smuggling, which undermines legitimate businesses and deprives the government of much-needed revenue. The operation is in line with the strategic direction of Acting PNP Chief PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. and the operational leadership of PBGEN Abrahano, reaffirming law enforcement’s commitment to safeguarding public welfare and economic integrity across Northern Mindanao.