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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider BOC seizes ?84 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in Bulacan

BOC seizes ?84 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in Bulacan

Published Apr 25, 2025 10:25 am

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The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has seized an estimated ₱83.7 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in a warehouse and six trucks in Bocaue, Bulacan, as part of government’s efforts against illegal trade.

BOC Commissioner Bien Rubio said the swift action of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) led to the successful operation.

BOC-CIIS Director Verne Enciso shared that after receiving information regarding the potential presence of smuggled cigarettes at the Bulacan warehouse, their team promptly verified the details and secured a Letter of Authority from Rubio.

Upon arrival at the location, the CIIS-MICP team discovered 717 master cases of various cigarette brands, including Modern, TS, Two Moon, Tattoo, Fort, H&P, Xplore, Carnival, Concord, RGD, Marvels, Chesterfields, and New Orleans. They also noted the presence of six trucks loaded with the same illicit products.

Enciso added that while the initial estimated value of the seized items is ₱83.7 million, a comprehensive inventory will be conducted to determine the precise value.

He noted that the warehouse has been sealed and secured pending the completion of the inventory.

The CIIS-MICP agents were supported by personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard-Task Force Aduana (PCG-TFA) and coordinated with the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group’s (PNP-CIDG) Anti-Fraud and Commercial Crimes Unit.

BOC Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence Group Juvymax Uy lauded the operation, pointing out the rigorous vigilance employed by CIIS-MICP agents in uncovering such smuggling activities.

He said that these operations underscore the BOC’s continuous dedication to its mission of securing the country’s borders and protecting its citizens.

Rubio noted that smugglers attempting to bring illegal items into the country will be caught and prosecuted.

Representatives from the tobacco industry also commended the BOC for their efforts.

Philip Morris Philippines Manufacturing, Inc.’s Intelligence and Investigation Security Officer Joseph Dizon said, “Congratulations BOC-CIIS MICP Field Station! Excellent work… Your successful operations yesterday at Bocaue, Bulacan are a testament to your dedication and effectiveness.”

Raoul Fernandez, counsel for Japan Tobacco International, added their congratulations to the BOC-CIIS and its officials for the successful seizure of illicit and counterfeit cigarettes in Bocaue, Bulacan.

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