ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY, Philippines — The Naval Command Western Mindanao (NCWM) intercepted two motorized vessels carrying undocumented cigarettes in separate maritime operations off Zamboanga Sibugay, with the seized boats and their cargoes valued at approximately ₱105.4 million.
The interceptions were part of a series of anti-smuggling operations conducted by the naval command from October 9 to 27, 2026, which resulted in the seizure of three vessels and contraband cigarettes worth a combined ₱110,907,467.20, according to information released by the NCWM.
The first operation took place on October 9–10, when naval personnel intercepted the M/B Nylanra in the waters off Zamboanga Sibugay. The vessel was carrying approximately 400 master cases of cigarettes without the required documentation. Authorities placed the estimated combined value of the boat and its cargo at ₱58.88 million.
On October 23, naval forces intercepted another vessel, the M/B Sparrow, off the coast of Olutanga, Zamboanga Sibugay, after it allegedly attempted to evade authorities.
A subsequent inspection uncovered approximately 300 master cases of various brands of illegal cigarettes aboard the vessel. The estimated value of the boat and its cargo reached ₱46.52 million.
Together, the two operations accounted for approximately ₱105.4 million in seized vessels and cigarette shipments, based on the rounded valuations provided by the naval command.
The intercepted vessels, their cargoes and their crew members were brought to Naval Station Romulo Espaldon for documentation before being formally turned over to the Bureau of Customs–Port of Zamboanga for appropriate disposition.
The NCWM said its personnel observed established operational procedures and respected the rights and welfare of the crew members during the interdictions.
Rear Admiral Constancio Arturo M. Reyes Jr., commander of the NCWM, commended the naval personnel and units involved in the operations.
Reyes said the successful interdictions reflected the command’s continuing commitment to protecting the country’s maritime routes and economic interests. He added that the NCWM would remain vigilant and continue coordinating with partner law enforcement agencies to suppress illegal activities in Western Mindanao’s waters.
The two seizures highlight the continuing enforcement efforts against maritime smuggling in the region. However, the naval command’s announcement did not specify the identities of the crew members or indicate whether formal charges had been filed in connection with the shipments.