P100.57-M worth of illegal cigarettes seized in Bataan raid

Authorities seized an estimated P100.57 million worth of illegal cigarettes during an operation at a compound in Barangay Santa Isabel, Dinalupihan, Bataan, on 9 January 2026.

According to officials, operatives from the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Customs, and the Philippine Coast Guard searched the compound and discovered the contraband.

Authorities said the illegal tobacco products were found inside 12 vehicles parked within the compound. A total of 1,030 master cases of smuggled cigarettes were recovered during the operation.

The raid was conducted by a joint team led by CIIS-Limay, ESS-Limay, and the PCG–Task Force Aduana, with support from the PNP Bataan Provincial Police Office, the Dinalupihan Municipal Police Station, barangay officials, and the Philippine Army’s 69th Infantry Battalion, which provided perimeter security.

Further investigation is underway to identify those responsible for the illegal shipment and possible violations of customs and tax laws.