The Philippine National Police (PNP) is coordinating with the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and other concerned government agencies in the disposal of multibillion-peso worth of smuggled and illegally manufactured cigarettes.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the move is part of measures to ensure the integrity of anti-cigarette-smuggling operations.
“These confiscated cigarettes must be disposed of properly in the soonest possible time to prevent any speculation and eventually maintain the integrity of the aggressive police operations against this illegal product,” Nartatez said.
He said commanders of the operating units have specific instructions to turn over to the BOC, Bureau of Internal Revenue, or any appropriate government agency all smuggled and illegally manufactured cigarettes.
As part of the nationwide crackdown, the PNP is calling on citizens to act as the “eyes and ears” of the police.
The top cop assured the public that reporting can be done safely and effectively without fear of retaliation.
“To report suspected sellers or manufacturers of illegal cigarettes, you can use the Unified 911 hotline. You do not need to be afraid because your identity is confidential,” Nartatez said in a mix of Filipino and English, adding that when reporting, the public should provide the exact location and, if possible, the brand of the illegal cigarettes being sold.
