DILG: Illegal cigarette factory busted in Tanza, Cavite

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced Friday the discovery of an illegal cigarette manufacturing operation inside a warehouse in Tanza, Cavite.

At a press conference, DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla said a law enforcement operation was conducted at the warehouse on Thursday morning through a letter of authority from the Bureau of Customs (BOC).

"Ito po ay in operation since August of 2025. Ang estimated production nila ay umabot hanggang P2 billion simula August," Remulla said.

(The illegal cigarette manufacturing has been in operation since August of 2025. Its estimated production has reached P2 billion since August.)

The facility was reportedly registered as "Cavite South Luzon Steel Management" and declared as a canned goods storage site.

A concerned citizen reported a strong tobacco odor was emanating from the area. Surveillance later confirmed alleged cigarette manufacturing activities, prompting the inspection.

During the raid, the following were confiscated:

• cigarette manufacturing machinery
• industrial generators
• a forklift
• sacks of dried tobacco
• packaging materials
• raw cigarette components
• alleged counterfeit finished products bearing various brand names
• boxes of Fresh Tobacco Square sets

The BOC estimated the total value of the seized contraband at P200 million.

Case build-up and inventory procedures are ongoing in preparation for the filing of charges under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act as well as the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act.

Authorities are looking at two persons who are allegedly linked to the illegal activity.

Remulla also warned distributors and market vendors that authorities will begin raids next week as part of efforts to dismantle the supply chain of illegal cigarettes. — VDV, GMA Integrated News