DAVAO CITY — Authorities seized an estimated ₱677,960 worth of cigarettes suspected to have been smuggled during an operation in Barangay 27-C, Davao City, on August 10, 2026, the Philippine National Police Maritime Group said.
Personnel of the Regional Maritime Unit 11 (RMU 11) and the Davao City Maritime Police Station recovered 15 master cases, 47 reams, and six packs of Green Hill cigarettes during the operation.
The operation stemmed from information provided by a confidential informant regarding the alleged transport of the cigarettes using a white Suzuki Mini Van.
Authorities coordinated with barangay officials and personnel of the Bureau of Internal Revenue Regional Office XI (BIR XI) before conducting an inspection and inventory of the items.
Following the inspection, the seized cigarettes were placed under the temporary custody of RMU 11 while authorities prepared the necessary documentation for their eventual turnover to the BIR XI.
Police said the operation remains part of continuing efforts to curb the movement and distribution of illicit cigarette products in Davao City and the wider Davao Region.
Investigation Underway
Authorities are now conducting a follow-up investigation to establish the identity of the person or persons who allegedly owned or were responsible for the shipment of the cigarettes.
Investigators are also working to determine the ownership and involvement of the Suzuki Mini Van reportedly used to transport the seized cigarette products.
The authorities have yet to identify any person as a suspect in connection with the seizure.
The appropriate criminal and administrative charges, if warranted by the evidence and the findings of the investigation, may be pursued against those found responsible.
The seizure also remains subject to the appropriate proceedings and verification by the concerned government agencies.
The RMU 11 said the seized cigarette products will be formally turned over to the BIR XI upon completion of the required documentation and procedures.
The operation underscores the continuing coordination between maritime police units, local government authorities and revenue enforcement agencies in addressing the circulation of suspected illicit tobacco products in the region.