Photo courtesy of PNP/Facebook.
Police recovered illegal cigarettes worth Php 6,695,000 in a raid in Silang, Cavite, targeting unregulated tobacco shipments.
Authorities intercepted 103 master cases of cigarettes that lacked proper health warnings and legal permits. Two men, identified by their aliases “Chris” and “Mar,” aged 43 and 31, were arrested during the operation.
The suspects face charges for violating the Graphic Health Warnings Law (RA 10643) and the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003 (RA 9211) for distributing unmarked and unregistered tobacco products.
“The rule of law applies to all businesses and individuals,” said Chief PNP Jose Melencio Nartatez. “Anumang negosyo o indibidwal, dapat sumunod sa batas. We are committed to ensuring that commerce operates within legal boundaries—protecting both consumers and legitimate enterprises.”
Police noted that unregulated products endanger consumers and deprive government programs of revenues intended for public services.
Authorities urged business owners and transport operators to verify the legality of goods and documentation to avoid involvement in unlawful trade.
Community cooperation remains vital in fighting illegal commercial activities. “Katuwang ang publiko, mas epektibo ang ating laban sa ilegal na gawain,” Nartatez added.