CIDG seizes PHP2.4 billion in counterfeit cigarettes, smuggling quipment in major anti-smuggling operation

DAVAO CITY  – The Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) has seized PHP2.4 billion worth of counterfeit cigarettes and manufacturing equipment in a two-day operation in Valenzuela City and San Rafael, Bulacan.

The CIDG Anti-Fraud and Commercial Crime Unit (AFCCU), in collaboration with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), conducted the raids from November 6-7 under BIR Mission Order No. MS0201700024179.

The operation targeted Bulacan, identified as a major hub for the illegal production of counterfeit cigarettes distributed across Valenzuela and other areas.

CIDG Chief Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III confirmed the success of the operation, which involved confiscating various brands of illicit cigarettes and a vast array of cigarette manufacturing equipment. Several suspects, including foreign nationals operating under aliases such as “Yanliang,” “Rock,” “Zizhan,” “Zili,” and “Ziqiang,” were arrested in Valenzuela, while another suspect, identified as “WU,” was apprehended in Bulacan.

Torre revealed, 155 individuals trafficked to work in the illegal factory in San Rafael were rescued.

The factory, reportedly a large-scale operation, had a production capacity of 12.9 million cigarettes daily, valued at around PHP45 million. Authorities estimate the total market value of the seized machinery, raw materials, and other items at PHP1.24 billion.

Separate raids in Valenzuela led to the confiscation of additional illicit cigarette brands valued at approximately PHP1.158 billion. All suspects were transferred to the AFCCU for documentation and legal processing, while confiscated items remain under the custody of the BIR.

Brig. Gen. Torre stated that charges are being prepared under Republic Act (RA) 9208, the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003 (as amended by RA 10364), and RA 8293 (Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines) against those involved.

“This successful operation highlights our firm commitment to dismantling criminal syndicates that exploit vulnerable individuals and jeopardize public safety. The CIDG is determined to ensure that no one is above the law—dahil ang gusto ng pulis, ligtas ka (because the police want you to be safe),” Torre said.

This operation showed the CIDG’s dedication to combating illicit trade and human trafficking, reinforcing efforts to protect the public from illegal activities that endanger public health and exploit individuals.