29/06/2026
PNP RECOVERS NEARLY ₱11-M IN SUSPECTED SMUGGLED CI******ES ACROSS THREE OPERATIONS
The Philippine National Police (PNP) recovered more than ₱10.9 million worth of suspected smuggled ci******es in three separate operations in Northern Mindanao, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, and Zamboanga Peninsula, reflecting the PNP's continuing campaign against illicit trade.
In Kolambugan, Lanao del Norte, police arrested a legal-age Filipino suspect after intercepting a wing van carrying 190 master cases, or approximately 9,500 reams, of suspected smuggled ci******es with an estimated value of ₱7.6 million. The vehicle and its cargo were placed under police custody pending turnover to the appropriate government agency.
In Marantao, Lanao del Sur, police recovered 2,550 reams of suspected smuggled ci******es worth about ₱2.18 million after several individuals reportedly abandoned the contraband along a roadside upon learning of an anti-criminality checkpoint. The recovered items were secured while follow-up investigation is underway to identify those involved.
Meanwhile, in Pagadian City, Zamboanga del Sur, responding police recovered 20 master cases of suspected smuggled ci******es valued at approximately ₱1.14 million after a concerned citizen reported several abandoned boxes in the area. Authorities are coordinating with the concerned agencies for the proper disposition of the recovered items and the continuation of the investigation.
The operations support the PNP's Focused Agenda on Enhanced Managing Police Operations, reinforcing the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen efforts against illegal trade, safeguard government revenues, and uphold the rule of law.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. lauded the operating units for their vigilance and swift action.
"Patuloy nating paiigtingin ang ating kampanya laban sa smuggling at iba pang iligal na gawain. Hindi lang ito tungkol sa pagkumpiska ng kontrabando—tungkulin din nating protektahan ang ekonomiya, suportahan ang mga lehitimong negosyo, at tiyaking may pananagutan ang mga lumalabag sa batas. We will remain steadfast in carrying out this mandate through coordinated and intelligence-driven operations," said PGen Nartatez.
The PNP assures the public that it will sustain intensified operations against smuggling and other transnational crimes as part of its commitment to Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman, delivering responsive and trustworthy police service to every Filipino.
(PNP-PIO)