The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) carried out separate anti-smuggling operations that resulted in the confiscation of more than P32.5 million worth of smuggled cigarettes across Davao del Sur, Zamboanga City, and Palawan.In Davao del Sur, the PCG intercepted the motorized boat MBCA Camilla off the waters of Sta.Cruz during a seaborne patrol.Authorities arrested three crew members and seized 82 master cases of smuggled cigarettes valued at around P7.38 million.

According to PCG spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab, initial findings showed that the shipment originated from Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat, and was intended for distribution in Sta.Cruz.

In Zamboanga City, police officers conducting a checkpoint operation in Barangay Campo Islam recovered 61 master cases and 715 reams of assorted cigarettes worth about P14.08 million.

The driver and helpers of the wing van carrying the cargo reportedly abandoned the vehicle and fled when they noticed the approaching police officers.PNP chief Gen.

Jose Melencio Nartatez said the operation demonstrated the importance of close coordination among law enforcement agencies in preventing illegal activities.Meanwhile, in Balabac, Palawan, members of the PNP Maritime Group, working with other agencies, confiscated another P11.1 million worth of cigarettes during a joint maritime anti-smuggling operation.

Five individuals were arrested after allegedly transporting cigarette products that did not carry the required government graphic health warnings and for failing to present the necessary permits.They now face charges under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, the Graphic Health Warnings Act, and agricultural economic sabotage laws.

Police officials said the successful operations highlight the value of sustained maritime law enforcement, intelligence sharing, and inter-agency cooperation in combating smuggling and other transnational crimes.