SAN FERNANDO, Bukidnon — Police authorities intercepted and confiscated ₱720,000 worth of undocumented cigarettes during a checkpoint operation in Barangay Kalagangan, San Fernando, Bukidnon at around 11:10 a.m. on Sunday, January 11, 2026.
The operation was conducted by personnel of the 1003rd Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10 (RMFB 10), in coordination with the Bukidnon Provincial Intelligence Unit and the San Fernando Municipal Police Station.
According to police reports, a white Toyota Hi-Ace Commuter van was flagged down for inspection. The vehicle was being driven by a 37-year-old resident of Asuncion, Davao del Norte. Upon checking, authorities discovered 18 master cases of cigarettes that did not bear the required government health warning labels.
The driver failed to present any legal documents to justify the transport of the cigarettes, prompting his immediate arrest. Both the vehicle and the illegal cargo were confiscated.
An on-site inventory of the seized items was conducted in the presence of a barangay kagawad and the apprehended driver, in compliance with standard operating procedures. The suspect was informed of his rights under the Miranda Doctrine and was later brought to the San Fernando Municipal Police Station for proper documentation and processing.
The confiscated cigarettes and the van will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental for further investigation and appropriate disposition.
PBGen Christopher N. Abrahano, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 10 (PRO-10), commended the operating units for their vigilance and professionalism, saying the successful interception underscores the police force’s intensified campaign against smuggling and illegal trade in Northern Mindanao.
“This operation reflects our strong commitment to curb the proliferation of smuggled and illegal goods that undermine the economy and endanger public health,” Abrahano said.
The operation forms part of the broader anti-smuggling drive of the Philippine National Police under the directives of PNP Acting Chief PLtGen Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., who has repeatedly emphasized strict enforcement of the law, integrity in operations, and accountability among police personnel nationwide.