BOC destroys ₱188M worth of smuggled cigarettes in CDO

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) destroyed more than P188 million worth of smuggled cigarettes seized in back-to-back operations at the Port of Cagayan de Oro.

According to a statement on Thursday, the BOC Port of Cagayan had conducted hydrolysis and physical destruction of 4,360 master cases and 10 reams of illicit cigarettes, along with 24 sets and 37 pieces of vape juice.

The smuggled items were seized from several operations conducted at Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Bukidnon, and Camiguin.

The operation was witnessed by officials from the Bureau of Customs (BOC), partner law enforcement agencies, the local government unit (LGU), private stakeholders and other government representatives.

“The destruction of these smuggled cigarettes sends a clear message that the Bureau of Customs will not tolerate unlawful importation and distribution. We will continue to protect public interest and promote fair and lawful trade,” said BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno. —VAL, GMA Integrated News