By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has credited the Naval Command-Western Mindanao (NCWM) for a series of maritime enforcement operations that resulted in the interception of an estimated P193 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in less than a month.
BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the naval command’s sustained vigilance and coordinated operations dealt a significant setback to illicit trade activities in Western Mindanao.
In the latest operation on Aug. 14, personnel of Naval Task Force 61 intercepted a vessel off Buton Mahablo in Parang, Sulu, carrying an estimated P170.14 million worth of undocumented foreign-brand cigarettes.
Five crew members and 19 laborers were apprehended during the operation. The vessel and its cargo were later turned over to the BOC-Port of Zamboanga for appropriate legal action.
The interception followed an earlier operation by the NCWM off Simisa Island, Sulu, on July 29, when authorities seized approximately P23 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes.
Nepomuceno said the combined seizures underscored the importance of sustained cooperation among government agencies in protecting the country’s borders and legitimate commerce.
“The contribution of the Naval Command-Western Mindanao to our campaign against smuggling is significant. We are grateful for their swift action in preventing the entry of illegal products that undermine legitimate trade and the security of our communities,” Nepomuceno said.
He said the seizures, with a combined estimated value of P193 million, demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated enforcement operations.
“We will continue to work together to protect our borders, legitimate businesses, and government revenue,” he added.
The Customs chief also commended NCWM personnel for their enforcement efforts, stressing that sustained inter-agency coordination remains crucial in strengthening border protection and suppressing smuggling and other illicit trade activities.
“The BOC is committed to strengthening its partnership with the Naval Command-Western Mindanao through sustained coordination and joint enforcement efforts aimed at combating smuggling and other forms of illicit trade,” Nepomuceno said.
ia/xf
