Authorities have intercepted a total of P32.7 million worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes following the inspection of two undeclared containers at North Harbor, Manila, in a series of operations led by the Philippine Coast Guard and other law enforcement agencies.
The latest seizure occurred on March 14, 2025, when a joint team from the PCG, Bureau of Customs, National Bureau of Investigation, and the Philippine Tobacco Institute discovered 83 boxes of alleged smuggled cigarettes in a second undeclared container at Pier 14 in Manila Port area.
Captain Vincent Laca, commander of PCG – Station Manila, said intelligence reports received months prior indicated that smuggled cigarettes were being transported from Zamboanga to Manila via a passenger-cargo vessel.
