BOC seizes P21M worth of undocumented cigarettes in Albay

Late last month, the Bureau of Customs seized over P21 million worth of undocumented cigarettes from a motorized banca named 'Susie' in Pio Duran, Albay.

The seizure took place on November 21 when authorities found 377 master cases of undocumented cigarettes valued at P21.6 million aboard the boat by the waters of Barangay Marigondon.

During initial inspections, the cigarette packages lacked a revenue seal and crew members could not present legal documents for the goods, indicating unpaid taxes to the government.

BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio emphasized that this operation highlights their commitment to combating cigarette smuggling and protecting public revenue.

Nine individuals were arrested on board the boat and face charges under sections of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, tobacco regulations outlined in Executive Order No. 245, and the National Internal Revenue Code.

The successful operation underscores the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies such as the Philippine National Police-Maritime Group, Regional Maritime Unit 5, and Ligao Maritime Law Enforcement Team.