Authorities seize P146 million in suspected smuggled cigarettes at Zambales port

PALAUIG, Zambales — Bureau of Customs officials have confiscated more than P146 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes and equipment discovered at a pier in this coastal municipality, marking a significant enforcement action against contraband trafficking in the region.

Examiners from the Bureau of Customs initiated an inventory of the seized goods following their discovery at the port facility. The operation has prompted authorities to assemble a composite investigative task force tasked with determining the shipment's point of origin and identifying the vessel involved in its delivery to Philippine shores.

The discovery underscores ongoing efforts by Philippine customs authorities to combat cigarette smuggling, a persistent challenge affecting government tax revenues and domestic tobacco industry operations. Officials have prioritized tracking the vessel responsible for the shipment as part of the broader investigation.

The Bureau of Customs did not immediately provide additional details regarding the specific brand of cigarettes seized or the nature of the abandoned equipment found alongside the contraband. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to identify those involved in the smuggling operation.