CAUAYAN CITY, Isabela — Authorities seized more than P82.7 million worth of suspected illegal cigarettes during a joint enforcement operation at a hotel here on 25 June.

The raid was conducted at TD Hotel in Barangay District 1 by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), the Cauayan City Police Station, and other government agencies under a BIR Mission Order.

Police said the operation was launched after authorities received information about the alleged sale and distribution of suspected smuggled cigarettes involving several Chinese nationals.

During the inspection of two hotel rooms, authorities recovered 202 boxes containing various cigarette brands with an estimated value of P82,713,366.52.

Present during the operation were the hotel’s owner, identified only by the alias “Willy,” and two Chinese nationals identified only as “Michael” and “Lisa.”

Following the inventory and documentation, the confiscated cigarettes were turned over to the BIR Regional Office 2 for safekeeping, further investigation, and the filing of appropriate charges.

Police Regional Office 2 Director Brig. Gen. Mariano C. Rodriguez said the Philippine National Police remains committed to intensifying its campaign against the illegal tobacco trade.

“The continued importation of illegal cigarettes will not go unchecked. These products not only harm the country’s economy but also pose risks to the health of our people. We will continue to strengthen our campaign against all forms of criminality,” Rodriguez said.