Police commanders were directed to intensify intelligence monitoring of suspected smuggling routes and destinations as law enforcers try to accomplish more after around P628 million worth of smuggled and counterfeit goods were confiscated last month.

And the response was quick as the police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) earlier reported to have confiscated around P700 million worth counterfeit products believed to have been smuggled into the country, in a raid in a warehouse in Cavite on Monday, Aug. 3. 

Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), said his men were also tasked to continuously monitor warehouses, distribution hubs, ports, and transport terminals.

“We will sustain intelligence-driven operations and strengthen coordination among our regional and local police units so that criminal groups cannot simply transfer their activities to other areas,” said Nartatez.

“Our focus is to disrupt their networks, monitor emerging routes, and ensure continuous law enforcement presence where illegal trade is most active,” he added.

The July operations dealt a major blow to illicit trade networks that harm legitimate businesses, reduce government revenues, and put consumers at risk.

Nartatez said the PNP's campaign in the coming months will focus on dismantling organized groups behind smuggling operations through stronger intelligence work and closer coordination with partner agencies.

“We will continue building solid cases that will lead to successful prosecution and help dismantle these criminal networks,” he noted.

Nartatez called on the public and the business sector to help authorities identify and report illegal trade activities.

“We encourage everyone to immediately report suspicious activities involving smuggled or counterfeit goods because timely information enables us to act quickly, protect consumers, and support legitimate businesses,” he said.