BUTUAN CITY – Police seized smuggled cigarettes valued at P103 million in Northern Mindanao from Jan. 1 to June 22.
“This is a significant increase compared to the P14.5 million seized during the same period last year,” Police Regional Office 10-Regional Public Information Office chief Police Major Joann G. Navarro said.
Navarro said 111 anti-smuggling operations were conducted in Northern Mindanao so far this year, higher than the 24 carried in the same period last year.
The Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office (PPO) recovered P31.3 million, followed by the Misamis Oriental PPO with P27.6 million, and the Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 10 with P22.4 million.
Police credited unified coordination among all law enforcement agencies, government agencies, and the people for the success of the campaign.
“This notable increase in operations and confiscations is a clear indicator of our intensified campaign against smuggling activities,” PRO-10 Director Police Brig. Gen. Rolindo M. Suguilon said.
“I commend the bravery and diligence of our police officers on the ground who work tirelessly to stop these illegal shipments from reaching our markets,” Suguilon added.
“The fight against smuggling requires the vigilance and cooperation of our communities. I call on the public to report any suspicious activity, no matter how small. Sa tulong ninyo, mas mapapalakas pa natin ang ating kampanya (With your help, our campaign will be successful).”