By Ferdinand Patinio

SEIZED. A member of the Bureau of Customs inspects a portion of the smuggled cigarettes worth P83.7 million seized from a warehouse in Bocaue, Bulacan on Thursday (April 24, 2025). Six trucks loaded with similar items were also discovered. (Photo courtesy of BOC)

MANILA – The Bureau of Customs-Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (BOC-CIIS) seized an estimated PHP83.7 million worth of smuggled cigarettes from a warehouse in Bocaue, Bulacan on Thursday.

In a press release on Friday, CIIS-Manila International Container Port (MICP) agents, with support from the Philippine Coast Guard-Task Force Aduana and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, mraided the site and found 717 mastercases of assorted cigarette brands.

Six trucks loaded with similar contraband were also discovered.

BOC-CIIS Director Verne Enciso said the warehouse was sealed after the operation, with a full inventory pending to determine the final valuation of the items.

Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio commended the swift response, warning smugglers that the agency remains firm in its enforcement of the law. (With a report from Ferdinand Patinio/PNA)