The Philippine Navy’s Western Mindanao Naval Command (WMNC), through Naval Task Force 61, intercepted an estimated ₱260 million worth of smuggled foreign cigarettes in two separate maritime operations.
The combined seizure of approximately 3,460 master cases is subject to final inventory and valuation by concerned agencies, the Navy said.
Naval officials said the operations deal a significant blow to smuggling activities that undermine government revenue collection, distort legitimate trade, and threaten economic security.
In the first operation on Feb. 24, naval forces intercepted M/V Sun Voyage off Kalamansig Port in Sultan Kudarat. Boarding and inspection led to the discovery of about 3,000 master cases of imported cigarettes concealed onboard.
The vessel’s master failed to present the required import permits and cargo documents. The ship, its crew, and the seized cargo were escorted to Zamboanga City for turnover to the Bureau of Customs and other authorities for proper disposition and legal action.
A follow-up operation on Feb. 25 resulted in the interception of M/B Skyblue southeast of Sibago Island in Basilan.
Authorities found around 460 master cases of undocumented foreign-brand cigarettes. The boat captain and crew were also unable to produce valid documentation for the vessel and its cargo.
The motor banca and confiscated items are now undergoing legal processing.
