By Michelle Ducut
In a joint operation, authorities seized approximately ₱21.6 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and apprehended nine suspects in the waters of Barangay Marigondon, Pio Duran, Albay, on November 21, 2024.
According to Police Regional Office (PRO) 5 spokesperson Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib, the operation led to the confiscation of 18,850 reams (or 377 boxes) of assorted imported cigarettes valued at ₱21.2 million. In addition, a motorized banca named “Susie,” powered by a Mitsubishi 4D31 engine worth ₱ 400, 000, was also seized.
The confiscated items have been turned over to the Bureau of Customs for further documentation and disposition.
The nine arrested individuals now face charges under Sections 117 and 1113(a) and (f) of Republic Act 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act), in relation to the exportation and importation of tobacco products as outlined in Executive Order 245.