PCG intercepts motorbanca carrying P7.38-M suspected smuggled cigarettes

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) seized P7.38 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes onboard a motorbanca off the coast of Barangay Zone 3 in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur on Monday, July 27, 2026.

PCG Spokesperson Commodore Noemie Cayabyab, in a statement, said a seaborne patrol intercepted MBCA Camilla and personnel found 82 master cases of suspected smuggled cigarettes.

"Initial investigation revealed that the contraband originated from Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat, and was intended for distribution in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. The three crew members were taken into Coast Guard custody for appropriate legal disposition," Cayabyab said.

PCG Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, lauded the operating units that included the Coast Guard Intelligence Group Southeastern Mindanao, Coast Guard Intelligence Unit Davao del Sur, Coast Guard Station Davao del Sur, Coast Guard Investigation Division Unit Southeastern Mindanao, and Coast Guard Sub-Station Sta. Cruz. — BAP, GMA News