The Bureau of Customs (BOC), Sub-Port of General Santos, successfully seized 14,950 reams of Cannon Menthol cigarettes and 1 unit of Isuzu Truck Wing Closed Van with an estimated value of Php 7,825,000.00 on August 29, 2023, in Brgy. New Cuyapo, Tantangan, South Cotabato.

The operation was carried out in close collaboration with the Bureau’s Customs Intelligence Investigation Service (CIIS) and Enforcement Security Service (ESS), alongside the 1st Company South Cotabato Provincial Mobile Force (SCPMF), Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU), and Tantangan Municipal Police Station (MPS). The items were seized as part of a regional drive to combat illegal cigarettes.

The confiscated items were turned-over to BOC-Port of Gensan for safekeeping pending seizure and forfeiture proceedings. Meanwhile, a warrant of seizure and detention (WSD) has been recommended for the seized goods.

The Port of Davao and its sub-ports, under the leadership of District Collector Maritess Martin, are dedicated in intensifying their efforts to fight against illegal smuggling activities. This initiative is being carried out in partnership with partner regulatory and enforcement authorities, and it is in keeping with the priority program of Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio. These efforts aim to raise the BOC’s revenue collection, border security, and trade facilitation to international standards.#