IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay — Authorities arrested two men and seized an estimated ₱1.715 million worth of cigarettes allegedly lacking the mandatory graphic health warnings during an anti-illicit tobacco operation in Barangay Poblacion, Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, on October 29.
The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Field Unit, working with the Ipil Municipal Police Station, carried out the law enforcement operation at around 3 p.m., leading to the confiscation of 35 master cases of the questionable tobacco products.
The two suspects, identified by authorities only as Ben and Adi, both of legal age, were arrested after they were allegedly found in possession and control of the cigarettes.
Authorities said the confiscated products did not bear the graphic health warnings required under Republic Act No. 10643, or the Graphic Health Warnings Law.
The law mandates the use of graphic and textual health warnings on tobacco product packaging as part of the government’s public health measures aimed at increasing awareness of the dangers associated with tobacco use. It also provides consumer protection against unlawful trade practices and potentially substandard tobacco products.
The operation also forms part of the government’s broader campaign against smuggling and other customs-related violations under Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
The law seeks to modernize customs administration, strengthen revenue collection, facilitate legitimate trade, and intensify efforts against smuggling and customs fraud while promoting transparency and integrity in customs operations.
The CIDG said the latest operation underscores continuing efforts by law enforcement agencies to crack down on the circulation of illicit cigarettes in the Zamboanga Peninsula and other parts of the country.
CIDG leadership commended Police Colonel Rafael D. Lero, chief of the CIDG Regional Field Unit 9, and the CIDG Zamboanga Sibugay Provincial Field Unit led by Police Captain Christian Gabriel T. Putol for the successful operation.
The CIDG reiterated its commitment to enforcing laws against illicit trade and supporting the government’s intensified nationwide campaign against smuggling and other forms of economic sabotage.
Authorities have yet to release additional information regarding the origin of the confiscated cigarettes, the possible source of their distribution, and the specific charges that may be filed against the two suspects.