At least six personnel of the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and a civilian driver were arrested with alleged smuggled cigarettes worth around P8.2 million at a fish landing area in Barangay Poblacion, Naawan, Misamis Oriental on Friday, April 17, 2026.

Operatives of the Misamis Oriental Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA) launched the operation after receiving information about the ongoing unloading of alleged illicit cigarettes in the area.

When the operating team arrived, the suspects were allegedly caught in the act of loading boxes of cigarettes into a van.

Also seized during the operation were more than 10,000 reams of cigarettes and the vehicle. The seized items will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC).

The suspects are facing charges for alleged violation of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (RA 10863) and Graphic Health Warnings Law (RA 10643).

“The PNP Maritime Group reaffirms its unwavering commitment to intensifying anti-smuggling operations through sustained intelligence-driven enforcement, heightened monitoring of coastal and maritime entry points, and the strategic deployment of personnel in high-risk areas,” Regional Maritime Unit-Northern Mindanao (RMU-10) said.

Meanwhile, PCG has launched a parallel investigation into the arrest of its personnel.

PCG Spokesperson, Commodore Noemie Cayabyab, said the agency is cooperating fully with the police to ensure a thorough and impartial probe.

“The Command maintains a zero-tolerance policy against any form of illegal activity. Personnel found to have violated the law shall face administrative and criminal proceedings. If proven guilty, sanctions will be given, including dismissal from the Coast Guard service with forfeiture of benefits,” Cayabyab said.