Police seized an estimated ₱4.35 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes and arrested two men during an operation in Barangay Balicotoc, Ilog, Negros Occidental, on Sunday, Oct. 18.
The Police Regional Office Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) reported that authorities confiscated 76 master cases of cigarettes from a wing van during the operation.
The two suspects, ages 44 and 24, were aboard the vehicle when police conducted the operation. Both men are residents of Dipolog City, according to the report.
An initial inspection reportedly found that the cigarettes lacked the necessary permits and did not carry the required graphic health warnings.
Authorities said the alleged violations could fall under Republic Act No. 10643, also known as the Graphic Health Warnings Law, which requires health warnings on tobacco product packaging.
The confiscated cigarette products are now under the custody of the Ilog Municipal Police Station.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the seized products and the circumstances surrounding their transport.
The police have not provided further details about the identities of the suspects or whether additional charges have been filed.
The operation resulted in the seizure of 76 master cases of cigarettes with an estimated value of ₱4.35 million, while the two men remain in police custody as the investigation continues.
