The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced Saturday that it confiscated more than P100 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in separate operations in Bulacan and Davao del Sur.

In Bulacan, joint operatives from the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group–Bataan Provincial Field Unit and the Marilao Municipal Police Station of the Bulacan Police Provincial Office conducted a carefully planned entrapment operation at an industrial warehouse.

Authorities seized more than 1,300 master cases of illicit cigarettes, along with a trailer truck and two vans used to transport the contraband, with an estimated total value of P80 million. Two Chinese nationals were arrested during the operation.

Meanwhile, in Davao del Sur, PNP units, including the Digos City Police Station and regional enforcement teams, carried out an anti-smuggling raid in Barangay Dawis, Digos City.

The operation resulted in the seizure of about 440 master cases of assorted smuggled cigarettes without graphic health warnings, valued at approximately P22 million, and the arrest of two Filipino suspects.

The suspects remained in custody, while the confiscated items were turned over to the Bureau of Internal Revenue for proper disposition.

PNP Chief P/Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. stressed that smuggling poses serious harm to the economy, legitimate businesses and public health.