On August 20, 2026, police in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, recovered 1,100 reams of suspected smuggled cigarettes valued at P594,000 from an abandoned truck.
The cigarettes were discovered after a local resident reported a suspicious vehicle parked on private property for about five days.
Upon inspection, authorities found the truck's cargo unattended, with no driver or owner present.
Authorities Take Action Against Illicit Trade
This recovery demonstrates our continued vigilance against illicit trade and other activities that undermine lawful commerce and public safety.
BGen. Romano Cardiño, Director, PRO–NIR
The confiscated items have been handed over to the Kabankalan City Police Station for further inventory and legal action.
BGen. Romano Cardiño, director of the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO–NIR), emphasized the importance of community involvement in combating smuggling.
- August 15: Seizure of P21 million worth of cigarettes off Sipalay City, seven arrests made.
- August 6: Confiscation of P14.6 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in Bago City.
In the first half of 2026, PRO–NIR reported seizing P195 million in contraband and arresting 52 individuals.
Authorities have ramped up maritime patrols, border monitoring, and land checkpoints to intercept illegal shipments and dismantle smuggling networks.
The police continue to urge the public to report suspicious activities, highlighting that community tips are essential for successful operations.