ILIGAN CITY, Philippines — Police operatives seized approximately ₱800,000 worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes and arrested two individuals after intercepting a government barangay rescue vehicle allegedly being used to transport the tobacco products at a checkpoint along Macapagal Highway in Barangay Suarez, Iligan City, on Thursday afternoon, October 29, 2026.
The operation was conducted at around 4:55 p.m. at the Suarez Border Control Point (BCP) in Triton by personnel of the City Mobile Force Company (CMFC), Police Station 2 of the Iligan City Police Office (ICPO), and the Regional Intelligence Division 10 (RID 10).
Police initially flagged down the barangay rescue vehicle from Marawi City after noticing that it was traveling without a front license plate. During questioning, the occupants reportedly appeared hesitant to disclose what was inside the vehicle, prompting the operatives to inspect its rear compartment.
Through a slightly open window, police personnel spotted a ream of Green Cannon cigarettes in plain view. This prompted a closer inspection, which led to the discovery of a substantial quantity of tobacco products inside the vehicle.
Initial investigation revealed that the two occupants had allegedly purchased the cigarettes in Marawi City and were transporting them to Pala-o Market in Iligan City for delivery.
However, they failed to present documents establishing the lawful importation or acquisition of the cigarettes, including the necessary Bureau of Customs (BOC) clearance, tax stamps, and proof of payment of applicable customs duties and taxes.
The two apprehended individuals were identified only by their aliases as “Said,” 25, single, and a driver, and “Nica,” 37, married, and a businesswoman. Both are residents of Marawi City.
Authorities recovered 20 master cases containing approximately 1,000 reams of Green Cannon cigarettes, with an estimated market value of ₱800,000. The white Hyundai barangay rescue vehicle allegedly used to transport the products was also confiscated.
The use of a government-designated emergency response vehicle to transport the suspected illicit shipment adds another significant dimension to the incident, raising questions about the circumstances under which the vehicle was being used. However, authorities have yet to disclose further details regarding its ownership, authorization for use, or whether other individuals may have been involved.
The apprehended individuals were brought to the Iligan City Mobile Force Company for documentation and further investigation. They may face charges for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).
Meanwhile, the confiscated cigarettes and vehicle are pending turnover to the Bureau of Customs for appropriate action and further investigation into the suspected smuggling activity.
PRO 10 vows sustained crackdown on smuggling
Police Regional Office 10 Regional Director PBGEN Nestor C. Babagay Jr. underscored the importance of sustained law enforcement operations against smuggling and other forms of illegal trade, emphasizing the need to prevent the movement and distribution of illicit goods across the region.
Babagay said PRO 10 remains committed to strengthening enforcement operations and holding accountable individuals who attempt to circumvent existing laws and regulations.
“PRO 10 will not tolerate smuggling in our region. We remain resolute in strengthening our enforcement efforts and holding accountable those who attempt to circumvent the law,” he said.
The operation is in line with the Chief Philippine National Police’s Focused Agenda, which seeks to strengthen police operations, ensure effective enforcement of the law, and promote accountability.
The interception highlights the importance of routine checkpoints and inter-unit coordination in preventing suspected illicit shipments from reaching their intended destinations. It also underscores the need to ensure that government vehicles intended for public service are used appropriately and in accordance with their designated functions.
Authorities have yet to establish through further investigation the full circumstances surrounding the shipment and the alleged involvement of the two apprehended individuals.