PNP: More than P2B in smuggled cigarettes seized in Q1 2026

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has confiscated more than P2 billion worth of smuggled cigarettes from January 1 to March 29 of this year.

In a statement on Monday, the PNP said it conducted 3,153 operations all over the country during this period, with 1,187 individuals arrested.

Also seized were 246,085 packs and 484,064 reams of cigarettes, as well as 9,961 master cases and several manufacturing equipment.

Among the PNP’s units, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) posted the highest value of confiscations at more than P690 million.

Police Regional Office 9 (PRO 9) in Zamboanga City followed with more than P147 million in confiscated smuggled cigarettes, and PRO 4A in Calabarzon with over P116 million in confiscations.

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the confiscation of contraband has a big effect on the economy.

“These results show that our personnel on the ground are doing their job and doing it well,” he said.

“Hindi lang yung nahuhuli sa operasyon kundi pati yung nasa likod nito, hahabulin namin. Mula pinanggagalingan hanggang sa distribusyon, titiyakin naming mapapanagot ang mga sangkot,” Nartatez added.

(We will go after not just those who are arrested during the operation, but those behind the operations. From the source to distribution, we will see to it that they will be held accountable.) — JMA, GMA News