THE Philippine Navy’s Western Mindanao Naval Command (WMNC) seized more than ₱372 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in two separate operations last week, bringing the total value of contraband intercepted since August to over ₱681 million.
In a statement on Tuesday, the WMNC said its units under Joint Task Force POSEIDON intercepted two ferries—M/L Adilyn and M/L ASB Express during intensified maritime patrols in line with the command’s mandate to secure Western Mindanao waters against persistent intrusions and smuggling activities.
On Dec. 4, operatives under the Naval Task Force 61 intercepted M/L Adilyn about 56 nautical miles southeast of Sibago Island, Basilan, or some 41 nautical miles west of Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat.
The vessel was flagged down following reports of a suspicious intrusion in the area.
Inspection done by the National Bureau of Investigation–Western Mindanao Regional Office (NBI-WEMRO 9) confirmed the presence of 3,803 master cases of Cannon cigarettes and 18 master cases of New Orleans cigarettes onboard the vessel.
Officials estimated market value of the seized cargo—including the motor launch—at ₱220.9 million.
The following day, Navy units apprehended M/L ASB Express roughly 3.6 nautical miles southwest of Teomabal Island in Sulu.
The vessel was found carrying 1,686 cases of New Mega cigarettes and 944 master cases of Cannon cigarettes valued at P152.6 million, including the boat.
