The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) have seized P3 billion worth of smuggled cigarettes in a series of operations across the country as part of their intensified campaign against smuggling and illicit trade.

During a joint press conference and inspection of the seized cigarettes at Gothong Wharf in Mandaue City on 11 July, NBI Director Melvin Matibag and BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno declared an all-out war against cigarette smuggling and illicit trade.

The event was attended by NBI Regional Director Atty. Dominador Cimafranca, Bureau of Customs-Port of Cebu District Collector Atty. Zsae Carrie C. De Guzman, and officials from the BOC, NBI, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), and other partner law enforcement agencies.

Following the press conference, Nepomuceno and Matibag inspected 25 seized containers loaded with illicit cigarettes valued at approximately P980 million, which are currently being held at Gothong Wharf.

The shipment was intercepted after the NBI developed intelligence information that prompted customs authorities to conduct inspection and enforcement operations against the suspected cargo.

The 25 containers form part of 59 containers of illicit cigarettes intercepted through the BOC's continuing enforcement operations, with a total estimated value exceeding P3 billion.

The remaining containers are being secured at other government facilities while enforcement actions and legal proceedings continue.

During the press conference, Nepomuceno reaffirmed the BOC's all-out campaign against smuggling and illicit trade, emphasizing that enforcement efforts would go beyond confiscating contraband to prosecuting the individuals and businesses behind the illegal operations.

"Hindi kami maaareglo when it comes to the filing of cases against people and businesses involved in smuggling and illicit trade," Nepomuceno said.

"Hindi titigil ang BOC sa pagkumpiska ng mga iligal na kargamento. Hahabulin natin ang buong supply chain at sisiguruhing mapanagot ang lahat ng sangkot sa ilalim ng buong puwersa ng batas," he added.

Nepomuceno described smuggling as a form of economic sabotage that deprives the government of revenues, harms legitimate businesses, and undermines economic stability. He vowed to relentlessly pursue those involved in illicit trade.

Matibag, meanwhile, reaffirmed the NBI's commitment to working closely with the BOC in investigating and prosecuting organized smuggling operations.

He also announced that a memorandum of agreement among the BOC, NBI, and other partner law enforcement agencies is nearing completion to strengthen intelligence sharing, joint operations, and coordinated case build-up.

The inspection underscored the government's continuing efforts to dismantle smuggling syndicates through intensified enforcement, stronger inter-agency collaboration, and swift legal action.

In support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s whole-of-government campaign against smuggling and economic sabotage, the BOC said it will continue to strengthen border security and pursue individuals and businesses engaged in illicit trade.