TANTANGAN, South Cotabato — Authorities strengthened their anti-smuggling campaign after arresting two individuals and confiscating more than ₱255,000 worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes during a checkpoint operation in Tantangan, South Cotabato, shortly after midnight on July 22, 2026.
The operation was jointly carried out by personnel of the 1st South Cotabato Provincial Mobile Force Company (SPMFC) and the Tantangan Municipal Police Station, who intercepted a vehicle transporting 299 reams of alleged smuggled cigarettes at a police checkpoint in Barangay New Cuyapo.
According to authorities, the confiscated cigarettes have an estimated Bureau of Customs (BOC) standard value of ₱255,848.32.
Police immediately took the two adult suspects into custody for investigation, while two minors who were found accompanying them were turned over to the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) for proper intervention and handling in accordance with existing child protection laws and protocols.
Authorities said appropriate criminal charges are now being prepared against the adult suspects for alleged violations related to the transport and possession of smuggled goods.
The confiscation forms part of the intensified campaign against the illegal trade of untaxed and smuggled tobacco products, which authorities say continues to deprive the government of significant revenue while undermining legitimate businesses.
Acting Police Regional Office 12 Director PBGEN Alan B. Manibog emphasized that the successful operation reflects the region’s sustained commitment to combating smuggling and other illegal activities.
“This successful operation is proof that we remain vigilant against smuggling and other unlawful activities. We will continue to intensify intelligence-driven operations and checkpoint activities to protect our economy and ensure the enforcement of the law throughout the SOCCSKSARGEN Region,” Manibog said.
Police reiterated that intelligence-driven operations, mobile patrols, and strategic checkpoints across the region will continue as part of broader efforts to curb the movement of smuggled goods and strengthen law enforcement against economic sabotage.