KALILANGAN, Bukidnon — Authorities intercepted an estimated ₱240,000 worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes and arrested a man during a checkpoint operation at a border control point in Bukidnon, authorities said.
The operation was conducted by personnel of the 1004th Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10 (RMFB-10), in coordination with other law enforcement units, at the Regional Border Control Point in Barangay Pamotolon, Kalilangan.
According to police reports, operatives flagged down a silver Toyota Vios for routine inspection. During the checkpoint operation, authorities noticed several boxes loaded inside the vehicle, prompting a more thorough examination.
The inspection led to the discovery of a total of 300 reams of suspected smuggled cigarettes concealed inside the car. Authorities found 100 reams stacked on the vehicle’s backseat, while another 200 reams were recovered from the trunk compartment.
The driver, identified only by the alias “Khal,” 32 years old, was asked to present legal documents proving the legitimacy of the cargo. However, he reportedly failed to provide the necessary permits and supporting papers for the transport and possession of the cigarettes.
As a result, law enforcement personnel immediately placed the suspect under arrest and confiscated the alleged contraband.
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) assessed the market value of the seized cigarettes at approximately ₱240,000.
Authorities said the confiscation forms part of ongoing efforts to curb the illegal trade and distribution of smuggled tobacco products, which deprive the government of tax revenues and undermine legitimate businesses.
Following the operation, the arrested individual was taken to the Kalilangan Municipal Police Station for proper documentation and the filing of appropriate charges.
Meanwhile, the seized cigarettes are scheduled to be turned over to the Bureau of Customs for further verification, inventory, and disposition in accordance with existing customs and revenue laws.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to strengthening border security and intensifying checkpoint operations to prevent the entry and movement of smuggled goods across regional boundaries. They also urged the public to report suspicious activities involving the transport and sale of illegal products in their communities.