MAASIM, Sarangani – Authorities further intensified their campaign against the illegal cigarette trade in Sarangani Province, leading to the seizure of approximately ₱1.3 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes and the arrest of one suspect during a maritime operation on July 24, 2026.
Police authorities intercepted two motorized boats off the waters of Maasim, Sarangani, where they discovered 22 sacks of suspected smuggled cigarettes believed to have been transported illegally into the province.
The operation resulted in the arrest of one individual, while another suspect managed to escape and remains at large. Law enforcement authorities have launched a manhunt operation to locate and apprehend the fleeing suspect.
Aside from the illegal tobacco products, authorities also confiscated the two motorized boats allegedly used to transport the contraband, which are now under police custody as evidence for the filing of appropriate charges.
The seized cigarettes are undergoing proper inventory and documentation as authorities prepare the necessary cases against those involved for alleged violations of customs and other applicable laws governing the illegal importation and distribution of tobacco products.
Police Regional Office 12 Acting Regional Director PBGEN Alan B. Manibog reiterated the Philippine National Police’s commitment to dismantling smuggling networks operating across the region, emphasizing that criminals will not evade the reach of the law—even at sea.
“Walang makapagtatago sa batas kahit sa dagat. Patuloy nating tutugisin ang lahat ng sangkot sa smuggling hanggang sa sila ay managot sa batas. Hindi tayo titigil sa pagprotekta sa ating komunidad laban sa mga iligal na gawain,” Manibog said.
The operation forms part of the continuing intensified anti-smuggling campaign of law enforcement agencies aimed at curbing the proliferation of illegally imported cigarettes, which deprive the government of significant tax revenues while fueling organized criminal activities.
Authorities urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious maritime or coastal activities that may be linked to smuggling operations, stressing that community cooperation remains vital in protecting local economies and preventing illegal trade in the region.
The identity of the arrested suspect has not yet been released pending the filing of formal charges, while investigations continue to determine the origin and intended destination of the seized shipment, as well as identify other individuals who may be part of the smuggling network operating in Sarangani and nearby coastal areas.