The Philippine Navy intercepted a motorized banca carrying an estimated ₱20 million worth of undocumented foreign-brand cigarettes during a routine patrol off Dumoy Point in Davao Gulf last Saturday, June 7.
The BRP Herminigildo Yurong (PG906) carried out the operation under the command of Naval Task Force 71 from the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao.
The patrol vessel spotted the banca, later identified as M/B Sharefa, unloading boxes near the shoreline.
As the vessel approached, the crew was seen hurriedly offloading the cargo before fleeing the area.
Upon inspection by a boarding team of PG906, authorities discovered approximately 800 master cases of undocumented cigarettes.
The vessel was secured, towed from shallow waters, and escorted to Naval Station Felix Apolinario (NSFA) in Panacan, Davao City, with support from the Naval Special Operations Unit 7.
On Sunday, June 8, the confiscated goods and the watercraft were officially turned over to the appropriate authorities at Captain Feranil Pier, NSFA, for further investigation and legal proceedings.
The Philippine Navy emphasized that the successful operation underscores its steadfast commitment to maritime law enforcement and its critical role in curbing smuggling and other illegal maritime activities in the country’s waters.
“This successful operation highlights the Philippine Navy’s continued commitment to maritime law enforcement and its crucial role in supporting national efforts against smuggling and other forms of illicit maritime activity,” Navy said.
