MALUNGON, Sarangani Province — Authorities from the Philippine National Police Maritime Group’s 5th Special Operations Unit (5SOU) seized smuggled cigarettes worth more than PhP196,000 after they were discovered abandoned in Barangay Malandag, Malungon, Sarangani Province on the evening of May 19, 2026.
According to the report, the contraband was found at around 8 p.m. during an operation conducted by personnel of the 5th Special Operations Unit under the PNP Maritime Group. The cigarettes were reportedly abandoned by still unidentified individuals before law enforcers arrived at the area.
Initial investigation revealed that the cigarettes are believed to be illegally smuggled products, lacking the necessary documentation and tax markings required under Philippine law. Authorities estimated the total value of the confiscated items at more than PhP196,000.
The recovered cigarettes were immediately placed under the custody of the operating unit for proper inventory and documentation, while authorities launched a deeper investigation to identify the persons responsible behind the illegal shipment.
Police officials said the operation forms part of the government’s intensified campaign against smuggling activities, particularly in coastal and border areas in Mindanao where illegal goods are often transported and distributed.
Authorities are also looking into the possibility that the abandoned shipment may be connected to a larger smuggling network operating in parts of Sarangani and nearby provinces.
Cases for violation of customs and tax laws are being prepared against the individuals who may be identified during the ongoing investigation.
The PNP Maritime Group reiterated its commitment to strengthening maritime and coastal security operations to curb the entry and distribution of smuggled products that negatively affect government revenues and legitimate businesses.