The Bureau of Customs (BOC) foiled a suspected maritime smuggling attempt in the Celebes Sea, intercepting a vessel carrying approximately 3,000 master cases of illicit cigarettes valued at an estimated ₱180 million.
The operation followed timely BOC intelligence regarding suspicious movements of a bulk carrier in the area, reportedly engaged in transferring cargo at sea.
These irregular maneuvers prompted close monitoring and coordination with the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Philippine Navy – Western Mindanao Naval Command through RADM Constancio Arturo Reyes, Commander of Western Mindanao Naval Command for the conduct a joint anti-smuggling operation.
Subsequently, the vessel was later identified and apprehended approximately 52 nautical miles west of Kalamansig Port, Sultan Kudarat, was boarded and inspected revealing thousands of master cases of cigarettes devoid of supporting documents for lawful importation, with the vessel’s foreign crew unable to confirm the legitimacy of the cargo.
Initial inventory and assessment place the estimated value of the seized products at no less than ₱180 million.
Upon confirming the presence of suspected illicit cigarettes, the apprehending team followed the proper procedures for a possible violation of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, and subsequently escorted the vessel to Naval Station Romulo Espaldon, Western Mindanao Naval Command, where it arrived or official inventory and documentation of the seized cargo.
Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno reaffirmed the Bureau’s firm stance against illicit tobacco trade.
“The BOC has been consistent and unwavering in its fight against the illegal sale, manufacture, and distribution of illicit cigarettes.”
“The BOC has been consistent and unwavering in its fight against the illegal sale, manufacture, and distribution of illicit cigarettes,” Nepomuceno said.
“Our country has no room for these unlawful activities.”
“We will continue to intensify our operations, not only because they fall under our mandate, but also as a clear warning: our country has no room for these unlawful activities. We will not allow illicit trade to infiltrate our borders at the expense of the welfare of the Filipino people and legitimate businesses,” he added.
In support of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration’s drive to curb illicit trade, the BOC has strengthened maritime monitoring and enforcement measures to dismantle smuggling networks and safeguard the country’s borders.
This vigilant effort remains a top priority, signaling that unlawful trade will be met with swift and decisive action.
