In a coordinated effort, a composite team from the Bureau of Customs (BOC), Philippine National Police-Maritime Group (PNP-MG), Regional Maritime Unit 5, and Ligao Maritime Law Enforcement Team (MLET) intercepted a motorized banca, “Susie,” which was found to be carrying 377 master cases of undocumented cigarettes valued at PhP21,602,100. The operation took place on November 21, 2024, in the sea waters of Brgy., Marigondon, Pio Duran, Albay.

The banca was crewed by nine individuals who were unable to present any legal documents for the allegedly smuggled goods. Initial inspections revealed that the cigarette packages lacked a revenue seal, a clear evidence that the corresponding taxes due to the government were not paid.

A Warrant of Seizure and Detention will be issued against the cigarettes as well as its conveyance for violation of Sections 117 and 1113 (a) and (f) of RA 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act in relation to the Amended Rules and regulations Governing the Exportation and Importation of Tobacco and Tobacco Products pursuant to Executive Order No. 245, as well as violations of Republic Act No. 8424 known as National Internal Revenue Code of the Philippines.

Collector Guillermo Pedro Francia IV said that this operation demonstrates the government’s intensified efforts to combat smuggling and illicit trade. Further, he emphasized that the incident underscores the need for further cooperation among government agencies to holistically address the challenges posed by smuggling to ensure that taxes are rightfully collected.

Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio likewise stressed that “this operation underscores our relentless commitment to combating the illicit trade of cigarettes and dismantling the nefarious activities of smuggling networks. The Bureau of Customs will continue to be at the forefront of enforcing the law and ensuring that taxes due to the government are fully collected. This success comes from strong collaboration with law enforcement agencies, which is essential for protecting legitimate trade and safeguarding public revenue from the detrimental effects of smuggling.”

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