Large Haul of Smuggled Cigarettes Seized in Negros Occidental
Authorities recovered 11,450 reams of smuggled cigarettes valued at P12.8 million in Sitio Bagambang, Barangay Tiling, Cauayan, Negros Occidental on Monday, May 19. The operation targeted the transport of illicit cigarettes, which often evade taxes and local regulations.
Local officials received tips about the movement of contraband cigarettes in various parts of Cauayan. After monitoring the situation for a week, law enforcement intercepted two men while transferring the smuggled goods from a boat to two panel vans. The suspects were identified as Jun-Jun, 39, from Zamboanga City, and Mar, 39, a driver from Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.
Details on the Smuggled Cigarettes and Suspects
The confiscated items consisted of 7,450 reams of imported smuggled cigarettes worth approximately P8,335,000 and 4,000 reams of locally produced illicit cigarettes valued at around P4,480,000. Officials described the suspects as part of an organized group, with Jun-Jun reportedly coordinating with a large distributor based in Mindanao.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the suspects declined to reveal their exact suppliers. However, investigators suspect links to previous anti-smuggling operations in Binalbagan, Negros Occidental. Authorities emphasized that these cigarettes bypassed the Bureau of Customs and avoided paying necessary taxes, allowing sellers to offer them at lower prices in “sari-sari” stores and local markets, especially in upland communities.
Legal Charges and Impact of Smuggling
The suspects now face charges for violating Republic Act (RA) 10863, known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, along with RA 8293, the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines. These laws aim to curb illegal trade and protect intellectual property rights.
Community leaders have expressed concern about how smuggled cigarettes hurt the local economy by depriving the government of tax revenue and undermining legitimate businesses. The ongoing operations demonstrate efforts to dismantle organized smuggling networks that threaten public health and economic stability.
For more news and updates on smuggled cigarettes recovered, visit Filipinokami.com.
