PANTAR, Lanao del Norte — Police seized an estimated ₱240,000 worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes and arrested two individuals during a checkpoint operation in Barangay Campong, Pantar, Lanao del Norte, on October 19, 2026, as authorities intensified efforts to curb the illegal trade and transportation of tobacco products in Northern Mindanao.
The operation was conducted at around 1 p.m. by personnel of the 1005th Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10, in coordination with other police and intelligence units, following the interception of a metallic blue Toyota Vios traveling from Marawi City toward Iligan City.
Police officers reportedly noticed several reams of suspected smuggled cigarettes on the vehicle’s front passenger seat. When the driver was asked to present the required documents authorizing the possession and transportation of the tobacco products, the necessary papers could not be produced.
Authorities subsequently conducted a more thorough inspection of the vehicle in the presence of the barangay chairman. The search led to the discovery of additional cigarette products concealed in various compartments of the car.
A total of 300 reams of cigarettes were confiscated, consisting of 150 reams of white Cannon cigarettes and 150 reams of red Castorce cigarettes. Authorities also noted that the seized products did not bear the required government health warning stickers, raising further concerns about their compliance with applicable regulations.
The driver and the other individuals involved were brought to the Pantar Municipal Police Station for documentation and appropriate police procedures.
Meanwhile, the vehicle and confiscated cigarette products are scheduled for turnover to the Bureau of Customs in Iligan City for proper disposition and further action in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
The seizure highlights the continuing efforts of the Police Regional Office 10 to prevent the entry, distribution, and transportation of suspected smuggled goods across Northern Mindanao. The illegal tobacco trade poses enforcement challenges, particularly when products are transported without the required documentation or do not comply with government labeling and health-warning requirements.
PRO10 Regional Director PBGEN Nestor C. Babagay Jr. urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and report suspicious activities that may be linked to smuggling and other illegal operations.
Authorities said public cooperation remains important in strengthening enforcement efforts, helping identify illegal supply routes, and ensuring that products entering and circulating in local markets comply with government regulations.
The case is expected to proceed through the appropriate investigative and customs processes as authorities determine the circumstances surrounding the shipment and the possible violations committed.