Two Chinese nationals were arrested after police seized over P8 million worth of illegal cigarettes in a checkpoint operation in Barangay Poblacion, Labrador, Pangasinan, on 21 January 2026, authorities said.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that officers flagged a closed van for inspection, finding 101 boxes of assorted cigarettes, totaling 5,050 reams. These were allegedly smuggled and lacked proper documentation.
The arrested individuals are facing charges related to smuggling, and the confiscated cigarettes were turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for investigation and proper disposition.
Local police units conducted the operation with support from provincial and regional units, as well as partner agencies. Authorities said such checkpoints aim to prevent illegal trade and enforce customs regulations.
The PNP emphasized that smuggling affects legitimate businesses and reduces government revenues intended for public services.