DIGOS CITY — Operatives of the Regional Special Operations Group 11 (RSOG-11) arrested two men and confiscated an estimated ₱22 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes during an operation in Barangay Dawis, Digos City on Friday, February 6, 2026, authorities confirmed.
Davao Region Police Director PBGen. Leon Victor Rosete said the operation led to the recovery of 440 master cases of assorted cigarette brands that did not carry the required graphic health warnings. RSOG-11 Chief PLt. Col. Maynard D. Pascual stated that the seized items are believed to be illegally imported and were valued at around ₱22,000,000 in the local market.
Police said the suspects were caught in possession of large quantities of cigarettes that failed to comply with government regulations, indicating a well-organized smuggling operation. Authorities stressed that the absence of proper health warnings violates consumer protection laws and poses serious risks to public health.
The incident constitutes a clear violation of Section 7 of Republic Act No. 12022, which defines and penalizes agricultural and economic sabotage, as well as Republic Act No. 10643, the law mandating graphic health warnings on tobacco products. Under these laws, offenders may face severe penalties, including lengthy imprisonment and heavy fines.
The seized cigarettes have been turned over for verification by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to determine possible tax evasion and other related offenses. Meanwhile, the two suspects are currently under the custody of the Digos City Police Station and are undergoing inquest proceedings.
Authorities are now preparing formal charges against the suspects for violations of RA 12022 and RA 10643. Investigators are also working to identify possible accomplices and determine the source and intended distribution network of the illegal goods.
PBGen. Rosete commended the RSOG-11 operatives for their swift and coordinated action, emphasizing that the operation reflects the Philippine National Police’s intensified campaign against smuggling, tax evasion, and other forms of economic sabotage.
He assured the public that law enforcement agencies in the Davao Region will continue to strengthen intelligence-driven operations to curb the proliferation of illegal tobacco products and protect both government revenue and public welfare.