Government agents seized P83.7 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during a raid at a warehouse in Bocaue, Bulacan.
Operatives from the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service-Manila International Container Port (CIIS-MICP) found 717 mastercases of assorted branded cigarettes inside the warehouse, as well as six trucks loaded with cigarettes.
“Smugglers should know by now that if they try to smuggle drugs, cigarettes, counterfeit items, and many others through our borders, they will get caught and be persecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Our agents are unwavering in their mission to protect our communities from the danger that these smuggled items pose,” Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said.
CIIS Director Verne Enciso said they received information about the possible presence of smuggled cigarettes in the warehouse.
Upon arriving in the Bulacan property, the team found 717 mastercases of assorted brands of cigarettes —Modern, TS, Two Moon, Tattoo, Fort, H&P, Xplore, Carnival, Concord, RGD, Marvels, Chesterfields, and New Orleans.
“We have estimated the total value of these cigarettes to be around P83,700,000, although a full inventory will still be done to determine the actual value of the items. For now, the warehouse has been sealed and padlocked to ensure the security of the goods until a full inventory is done,” said Enciso.
“Operations like these illustrate the BOC’s ongoing commitment and dedication to upholding its mission of border security and protecting our people. Their work ensures that the people behind these illegal activities will be held accountable, and it sends a strong message to anyone who attempts to circumvent our laws that we will stand in their way,” added Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence Group Juvymax Uy.
Philip Morris Philippines Manufacturing Inc. Intelligence and Investigation Security Officer Joseph Dizon and JTI counsel Raoul Fernandez welcomed the successful seizure of the illicit and counterfeit cigarettes.
