A total of 207 boxes and 3,507 reams of allegedly smuggled cigarettes with an estimated value of P5.3 million were destroyed by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, it said on Sunday, August 21.

Puerto Princesa Port Collector Gladys Fontanilla-Estrada said the shipments were shredded and soaked in water at the Palawan Flora and Fauna Watershed Reserve in Irawan, Puero Princesa City before they were disposed.
The destruction, held from August 16 to 18, was done in accordance with Section 1146 and 1148 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, according to Estrada.
She said the shipments were ordered forfeited by District Collector Ma. Rhea Gregorio “in favor of the government for violating customs laws, rules, and regulations.
“ shall further strengthen border security to prevent the entry of illegal goods into and country. remind now to patronize these products as they harm legitimate businesses as well as the national economy,” Estrada stated.