CIDG seizes PHP 21 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in Davao del Sur

DAVAO CITY, Philippines – The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) seized an estimated PHP 21 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in Malalag town, Davao del Sur during a law enforcement operation on March 6, 2024.

The CIDG Davao del Sur Provincial Field Unit conducted the operation, in coordination with the Malalag Municipal Police Station. Authorities launched an entrapment operation targeting the illegal sale of tobacco products, particularly cigarettes without graphic health warnings, in Barangay Baybay, Malalag, Davao del Sur.

CIDG Director PMGEN Nicolas D. Torre III confirmed that three individuals were arrested in connection with the operation. The suspects, identified as Christian, Ibrahim, and Rodel, were caught in the act of selling and unloading smuggled cigarettes from a motorized boat, transferring them into a closed van and a wing van truck.

Authorities confiscated the following items: 600 master cases of assorted brands of smuggled cigarettes, one closed van, one wing van truck, and one motorized boat.

The seized contraband, estimated to be worth PHP 21 million, has been placed under police custody as evidence for legal proceedings.

The suspects will face charges before the National Prosecution Service for violating Republic Act 10643 or the Graphic Health Warnings Law, which mandates that all cigarette packages and tobacco products must display graphic health warning labels.

 Torre reiterated the importance of enforcing this law: ” The State must protect and promote the people’s right to health and instill health consciousness among them. We are also committed to safeguarding consumers from trade malpractices and the circulation of substandard tobacco products.”

Torre emphasized that CIDG remains steadfast in its duty to uphold all laws, especially against illegal smuggling operations that threaten public health and economic security.

“The Graphic Health Warnings Law is a vital measure to protect consumers. It must be strictly followed. Rest assured, CIDG is relentlessly enforcing all laws and will ensure that violators—whether local or foreign nationals—are held accountable, committing crimes on land or in Philippine waters,” he added.

The CIDG continues to coordinate with other law enforcement agencies to dismantle smuggling networks and prevent the distribution of illegal tobacco products in the country. Further investigations are underway to identify the sources and possible larger syndicates behind the smuggling operation.

This latest high-profile seizure is part of the government’s intensified crackdown on smuggling and illegal trade, particularly in Mindanao, where illicit shipments have been a persistent challenge.

Authorities urge the public to report any suspicious activities related to smuggling and illegal trade to law enforcement agencies. This will help curb illicit activities and protect legitimate businesses.