The Bureau of Customs (BOC) destroyed P188-million worth of smuggled cigarettes seized in a series of anti-smuggling operations in Northern Mindanao.
In a statement on Thursday, the BOC said 4,360 master cases and 10 reams of illicit cigarettes, along with 24 sets and 37 pieces of vape juice, were publicly condemned at the Mindanao Container Terminal Subport in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental.
The seized goods, with an estimated market value of P188,038,350, were confiscated through intelligence-driven operations conducted across Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Bukidnon and Camiguin.
The destruction was carried out through hydrolysis and physical dismantling under the supervision of customs officials, partner law enforcement agencies, local government representatives and other stakeholders.
Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno commended the Port of Cagayan de Oro for the operation, saying the move underscores the agency’s commitment to enforcing customs laws, protecting public health and safeguarding government revenues.
The BOC said cigarette smuggling deprives the government of funds for essential services, undermines legitimate businesses and exposes consumers to unregulated products.
The condemnation forms part of the agency’s continuing nationwide campaign to suppress illicit trade and ensure that seized contraband is permanently removed from circulation.
