BACOLOD-KALAWI, Lanao del Sur — Authorities intercepted a significant haul of smuggled cigarettes worth an estimated Php 480,000 during a checkpoint operation on the evening of April 11, 2025, in Barangay Bubong, Bacolod-Kalawi.
Personnel from the Bacolod-Kalawi Municipal Police Station (MPS), along with augmented forces from the Regional Headquarters of PROBAR, flagged down a Toyota Revo with plate number WTU 709 traveling from Picong, Lanao del Sur, en route to Marawi City. Upon inspection, the vehicle was found loaded with 20 cases of San Marino Red cigarettes, each case containing approximately 24,000 sticks.
Two suspects, both residents of Barangay Maladug, Picong, were immediately arrested during the operation. The confiscated cigarettes and the vehicle are now under the custody of Bacolod-Kalawi MPS for proper documentation before their turnover to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) Region 10 for appropriate action.
PCOL Robert S. Daculan, Provincial Director of the Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (LDS PPO), commended the vigilance and commitment of the operating team in curbing the illegal cigarette trade in the province. However, despite the regular seizures and intensified checkpoints, the illegal sale and distribution of smuggled cigarettes continue to thrive, fueled by the steady demand from the public.
Many consumers, especially in rural and low-income communities, still prefer smuggled cigarettes over legitimate local brands due to their significantly lower prices. This persistent patronage not only undermines lawful businesses but also deprives the government of tax revenues that could fund essential public services.
Authorities remind the public that buying smuggled cigarettes supports organized crime and endangers livelihoods, urging consumers to make responsible choices and avoid purchasing illicit products.
Meanwhile, an investigation is ongoing to trace the source of the contraband and identify the larger network behind its distribution.