MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — Authorities in Bukidnon have intercepted an estimated ₱5.6 million worth of illegal cigarettes during a joint anti-smuggling operation along the Diversion Road in Barangay Patpat here on Sunday afternoon.
The operation, conducted shortly after 5:00 p.m., was led by the Highway Patrol Group (HPG)-Bukidnon in coordination with the Regional Highway Patrol Unit (RHPU)-10, Malaybalay City Police Station, and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)-Bukidnon.
Arrested were four individuals identified only by their aliases: “Al,” 25, a resident of Jolo, Sulu; “Rahim,” 43; “Romar,” 33; and “Amid,” 26, all residents of Zamboanga City. The suspects were serving as drivers and helpers of two closed-van trucks used in transporting the contraband.
According to HPG-Bukidnon chief PMaj. Neil Edward Retana, operatives became suspicious after spotting the two trucks traveling without rear license plates. Upon inspection, authorities discovered approximately 140 master cases of smuggled cigarettes concealed inside the vehicles.
Initial investigation revealed that the illegal goods originated from Lanao del Norte and were reportedly bound for Tagum City, Davao del Sur, indicating the existence of an organized distribution network operating across several regions in Mindanao.
The seized cigarettes were immediately turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental for proper disposition and documentation. Meanwhile, the four suspects are currently detained at the Malaybalay City Police Station.
They will face charges for violating Republic Act 10643, also known as the Graphic Health Warnings Law, in addition to possible violations related to smuggling and tax evasion.
Authorities said the operation forms part of the government’s intensified campaign against the illegal cigarette trade, which deprives the state of billions of pesos in revenue and poses serious public health risks.
Law enforcement agencies reiterated their call for public cooperation, urging citizens to report suspicious activities linked to smuggling and other illegal trade.
Investigations are ongoing to identify other individuals and groups involved in the operation and to dismantle the wider network behind the shipment.