ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Naval Command Western Mindanao (NCWM) seized more than ₱99.6 million worth of contraband and illegally transported goods in three separate maritime operations conducted across Western Mindanao from August 28 to September 3, 2026, highlighting intensified efforts to prevent the region’s waters from being used for smuggling and other illegal activities.
The three operations resulted in the confiscation of undocumented diesel fuel, smuggled foreign cigarettes, a motor vessel, and illegally transported Lauan lumber, with the total value of the seized items reaching ₱99,653,015.
The largest seizure involved undocumented diesel fuel valued at ₱72,172,046.50, accounting for the majority of the total value recovered during the three operations.
In a separate maritime operation, authorities seized smuggled foreign cigarettes and a motor vessel with a combined value of ₱27,228,969.
Another operation resulted in the interception of illegally transported Lauan lumber valued at ₱251,999.50.
The combined seizures underscore the continuing efforts of naval and law enforcement authorities to monitor maritime routes and prevent the illegal movement of commodities through the waters of Western Mindanao.
Rear Admiral Constancio Arturo M. Reyes Jr. PN, Commander of the Naval Command Western Mindanao, commended the operating units and partner agencies for their vigilance and effective coordination during the operations.
“These operations reflect NCWM’s sustained commitment to securing the maritime domain of Western Mindanao and preventing its use for smuggling and other illegal activities. We will continue working closely with partner agencies to protect our waters and national interests,” Reyes said.
The operations also highlight the importance of sustained inter-agency cooperation in maritime law enforcement, particularly in monitoring vessels and sea routes that may be used to transport undocumented or illegally sourced goods.
The seizure of more than ₱99.6 million worth of contraband and other illegally transported commodities represents a significant enforcement effort by the NCWM within the period covered.
NCWM said it will sustain its maritime security operations and strengthen coordination with law enforcement agencies to curb smuggling and other illegal activities while protecting the country’s maritime interests in Western Mindanao.
The naval command emphasized that continued vigilance and coordinated enforcement remain essential to ensuring that the region’s maritime domain is protected from activities that threaten lawful commerce, public security and national interests.