PHP 4.35M smuggled cigarettes seized, 2 arrested in Ilog
By Glazyl M. Jopson
BACOLOD CITY — Police arrested two individuals and seized PHP 4,354,800 worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in Barangay Balicotoc, Ilog, Negros Occidental, on Sunday, Oct. 18, in another major anti-smuggling operation in the Negros Island Region (NIR).
The operation came three weeks after the last anti-cigarette smuggling operation in the region.
The Regional Intelligence Division (RID) led the operation targeting the transportation and possession of suspected illicit and smuggled cigarettes in the area.
The suspects were identified by the aliases “Mak,” 44, and “Mar,” 24, both residents of Barangay Cogon, Dipolog City.
According to the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), the suspects were allegedly caught transporting and possessing suspected illicit cigarettes loaded in a wing van.
An initial inspection revealed that the tobacco products allegedly lacked the required permits and did not bear the prescribed graphic health warnings.
Police said the findings indicated possible violations of Republic Act 10643, or the Graphic Health Warnings Law, and other applicable laws and regulations.
The alleged violations remain subject to further investigation and determination by the appropriate authorities.
Authorities confiscated 76 master cases of suspected illicit cigarettes, which are now under the custody of the Ilog Municipal Police Station.
Republic Act 10643 requires graphic health warnings on tobacco product packaging to inform consumers about the health risks associated with smoking.
Brig. Gen. Rudecindo Reales, PRO-NIR director, said police would sustain their anti-smuggling operations, strengthen coordination with partner agencies and pursue individuals involved in illegal activities in accordance with the law.
“We will not allow cigarette smuggling and the illegal movement of illicit goods to go unchecked in the region,” Reales said.
Reales commended the operating personnel and partner agencies for their coordinated efforts.
He emphasized that combating smuggling requires sustained vigilance, decisive action and strict enforcement of existing laws.
PRO-NIR also encouraged the public to report suspected smuggling and other illegal activities to the appropriate authorities.
Police said community cooperation is essential to protecting legitimate businesses, safeguarding public interests and upholding the rule of law.
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