The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and Philippine National Police (PNP) confiscated more than Php 4.1 million worth of allegedly smuggled cigarettes from a refrigerated van in Ilog, Negros Occidental, as part of intensified efforts to combat illegal trade.
In a statement issued Saturday, November 7, the BOC said the operation was conducted on October 21 following an intelligence report from the PNP regarding a white refrigerated van allegedly transporting 3,754 reams of smuggled cigarettes.
Acting on the information, the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) secured a mission order from BOC-Port of Iloilo District Collector Noli Santua Jr. to conduct an operation in coordination with the PNP Regional Intelligence Division–Negros Island Region.
Authorities intercepted the vehicle and discovered assorted imported cigarettes without the required Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) tax stamps.
The confiscated products were valued at more than Php 4.1 million.
The van’s driver and his companion, both residents of Barangay Cogon in Dipolog City, were taken into PNP custody as authorities continued their investigation.
The operation was led by the BOC-Port of Iloilo under Santua, following directives from Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno and in coordination with Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence Group Emmanuel Luis Licup.
Santua credited the coordination between customs and police authorities for the interception.
“Sa tulong ng PNP, mabilis nating naaksyunan ang impormasyong natanggap at napigilan ang pagpasok ng mga ilegal na sigarilyo sa merkado,” Santua said.
He emphasized that the bureau would continue strengthening cooperation with other government agencies to prevent smuggling and protect the economy.
Meanwhile, Nepomuceno commended the BOC-Port of Iloilo, PNP personnel, and local officials for their coordinated efforts.
The customs chief said timely intelligence-sharing and cooperation among law enforcement agencies were essential in preventing the circulation of smuggled products, protecting government revenues, and ensuring fair trade.
The BOC reiterated its commitment to strengthening intelligence operations, inspections, and coordination with law enforcement agencies to detect and intercept illegally imported goods.
The bureau said these measures form part of its broader campaign to enforce customs laws, secure the country’s borders, and prevent revenue losses caused by smuggling.
