P25-M smuggled cigarettes seized

Authorities confiscated around 408 master cases of assorted cigarettes suspected to have been smuggled, with an estimated market value of P25 million, during a law enforcement operation in Barangay Poblacion, Salug, Zamboanga del Norte.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) said the operation was conducted by its Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Field Unit, together with the Special Operations Team of CIDG Regional Field Unit 9, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 9, Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company, and the local police unit.

Authorities found that the seized tobacco products lacked the required graphic health warnings, Bureau of Internal Revenue tax stamps and other mandatory markings and documentation.

The CIDG director said Republic Act 12022, or the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, strengthens the government’s campaign against large-scale smuggling and other unlawful activities involving agricultural products, including tobacco.

The law seeks to protect legitimate agricultural industries, promote fair trade, and safeguard the national economy against economic sabotage.

Authorities also cited Republic Act 10643, or the Graphic Health Warnings Law, which seeks to protect public health by raising awareness of the dangers of tobacco use through mandatory graphic and textual health warnings on cigarette packaging.

Republic Act 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, meanwhile, aims to modernize customs administration, enhance revenue collection, facilitate legitimate trade and combat smuggling and customs fraud while promoting transparency and integrity.