NASIPIT, Agusan del Norte – Top Bureau of Customs (BOC) officials on Thursday inspected a record P3.2-billion shipment of imported cigarettes seized in this town, described by authorities as the largest cigarette-smuggling haul in the country's history.
BOC Deputy Commissioner Emmanuel Luis Licup, Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) Director Thomas Narcise, and CIIS Northern Mindanao and Caraga Field Station chief Redford Surposa led the inspection at the Gothong Private Wharf here.
They were joined by Police Brig. Gen. Rolindo Suguilon, director of the Police Regional Office in Caraga (PRO-13).
Surposa said that authorities seized 54 container vans loaded with smuggled cigarettes during a joint operation by the BOC and the 1st Agusan del Norte Mobile Force Company on May 8, 2026 in Barangay Talisay, Nasipit.
"This is, so far, the biggest haul of smuggled imported cigarettes," Surposa said.
He said authorities spent several months conducting an inventory of the seized goods in preparation for filing appropriate charges.
"The case remains under investigation, and we are not yet disclosing certain details to the public. Even the names of the supposed recipients of the container vans appear to be fictitious," Surposa said.
In his remarks, Licup said the BOC, in coordination with PRO-13, will continue its investigation until the seized cigarettes are finally condemned and destroyed.
"Our presence here today underscores the bureau's continued focus on enforcement operations and ensuring that all procedures are strictly observed," Licup said.
He said a successful seizure becomes truly meaningful only when the goods remain secure, properly documented, and fully accounted for until their final disposition.
"Every stage, from inventory and safekeeping to condemnation and destruction, must be conducted with transparency," Licup said.
He added that the illegal cigarette trade causes significant harm by depriving the government of revenue, creating unfair competition for legitimate businesses, and exposing consumers to unregulated products.
"To our officers and personnel, remain vigilant and continue performing your duties with integrity. The leadership expects accountability from everyone while recognizing the challenges faced by those on the frontlines," Licup said.
He emphasized that the BOC leadership, headed by Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno, along with the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., remains committed to supporting officers who carry out their duties lawfully and honestly. (PNA)
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