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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider P2 B worth of smuggled, fake products seized as gov't agencies 'volt in' vs crime syndicates

P2 B worth of smuggled, fake products seized as gov't agencies 'volt in' vs crime syndicates

Published Apr 12, 2026 01:35 pm
Nearly P2 billion worth of smuggled and counterfeit products were seized over the weekend in what the Philippine National Police (PNP) described as proof of the power of unified law enforcement among government agencies.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. said the back-to-back raids in Cebu and Valenzuela City were an offshoot of information-sharing and joint operations with the Bureau of Customs, Department of Trade and Industry and local government units, particularly at the barangay level.
“Our whole-of-government approach is very important. The PNP cannot do this alone. These operations are a testament to what we can achieve when we pool our intelligence and resources. Smugglers have no escape when our agencies are united,” Nartatez said.
A total of P1.1 billion worth of raw materials and equipment in the manufacture of cigarettes were seized in Lapu-Lapu City in Cebu while around P700 million worth of smuggled perfumes were confiscated in Valenzuela City.
Nartatez said both operations were part of a wider campaign against smuggling and counterfeit distribution that affects government revenue and consumer safety.
He also noted that the success of the operations depended on shared intelligence and joint enforcement actions across agencies.
“I salute our personnel for their integrity and dedication. This success is proof of your faithful service to the nation. Keep up the good work. We will ensure that your efforts are recognized, but let this also be a reminder: we must not let our guard down. We must remain relentless in protecting our local industries,” Nartatez stressed.
The PNP said it will further strengthen cyber-intelligence capabilities and map logistics hubs suspected of being used for smuggled and counterfeit goods.
“We use intelligence-driven operations, surveillance, and digital monitoring. The fight is no longer traditional— we need to be faster, smarter, and more coordinated,” Nartatez said.

Related Tags

PNP DTI BOC Smuggling
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