Photo credit: BOC

In its ongoing campaign against illicit cigarette smuggling, the Bureau of Customs – Port of Cagayan de Oro (BOC-CDO), led by District Collector Alexandra Y. Lumontad, issued a Warrant of Seizure and Detention on June 25, 2024. The operation resulted in the seizure of 350 reams of undocumented cigarettes in Brgy. North Poblacion, Guinsiliban, Camiguin.

The confiscated cigarettes, valued at P280,000.00 based on current market prices, were found to be in violation of Section 1113 (a)(f)(k) and Section 117 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), as well as National Tobacco Administration Rules and Regulations. Alongside the contraband, authorities also seized the Wing Van Truck used for transporting the illegal goods.

Since May 2024, BOC-CDO, in collaboration with the Philippine National Police (PNP), has intercepted an estimated total of P25,775,440.00 worth of smuggled cigarettes through rigorous anti-smuggling operations in Northern Mindanao and neighboring provinces.

Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in combating illegal tobacco trade, stating, "Addressing and preventing these unlawful practices requires coordinated efforts with other law enforcement agencies. We are committed to intensifying our cooperation with the PNP and other partners to put an end to these illicit activities."