The Philippine Navy (PN) said Sunday, April 12, that it has seized an estimated P64 million worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes off Sulu during one of its recent maritime patrol operations in the restive southern waters.

Personnel of the Western Mindanao Naval Command’s (WMNC) Naval Task Force 61 conducted the operation against motorbanca (MB) Princess Zia about 1.2 nautical miles southeast of Marungas Island on April 8.

The area falls within the country’s internal waters, where authorities have stepped up monitoring due to persistent smuggling and cross-border movement of illegal goods.

Upon boarding, the troops found six crew members onboard the boat who failed to present documents for the cargo.

“This operation reflects our continuous presence at sea and firm resolve to enforce maritime laws and protect our borders,” said Lt. Commander Chester Ross Cabaltera, spokesperson of the WMNC.

The WMNC said the boat was carrying 460 master cases and 44 reams of assorted foreign-brand cigarettes.

The total estimated value reached P64,488,266 including the vessel which was valued at around P400,000.

The WMNC said the operation highlighted its ongoing efforts to curb smuggling in southern maritime corridors. These routes have long been flagged by authorities as vulnerable due to their proximity to international borders and porous sea lanes.

It reiterated its commitment to sustaining maritime patrol operations to safeguard the country’s waters and prevent the entry of illegal goods, emphasizing its continuous presence at sea to enforce maritime laws and protect national borders.

The vessel, its crew, and the cargo were turned over to the Bureau of Customs – Port of Zamboanga for appropriate legal proceedings.