Photo courtesy of Philippine National Police (PNP)/Facebook.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) intercepted an alleged smuggling operation in Labrador, Pangasinan, seizing over ₱8 million worth of illegal cigarettes and arresting two Chinese, officials said Wednesday.
The operation unfolded on January 21, 2026, during a routine checkpoint in Barangay Poblacion. Police officers flagged a closed van for inspection and discovered 101 boxes of assorted cigarettes, which were later confirmed to be undocumented and allegedly smuggled.
Authorities reported that the confiscated cargo included 5,050 reams of cigarettes, with an estimated market value of ₱8.05 million. The two Chinese nationals found inside the vehicle were immediately taken into custody and face appropriate charges.
The seized goods have been secured and are set to be turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for proper investigation and case preparation.
The operation involved the coordinated efforts of local police, provincial and regional support units, and partner agencies, following the PNP’s Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO) under its Focus Agenda.
Acting PNP Chief Plt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. highlighted the role of disciplined checkpoint operations in curbing criminal activity. “Minsan ang iniisip ng iba, checkpoint lang. Pero kapag maayos ang pagpapatupad at alerto ang mga pulis, malaking krimen ang napipigilan,” he said.
He also noted that smuggling not only threatens lawful businesses but also deprives the government of revenue. “Hindi lang ito tungkol sa iligal na produkto. Ang smuggling ay direktang nananakaw sa kaban ng bayan. Kaya seryoso ang PNP sa laban na ito, at hindi kami titigil,” Nartatez added.
