Bangsamoro authorities seize P1.7M in smuggled cigarettes across two provinces

A crackdown in Muslim Mindanao nets over a million pesos in contraband. Who’s behind the smuggling—and will they face justice?

, and Administrator

2025 December 11 . 1:20 PM

1 min read

In this image we can see a person holding a cigarette in his hand.

Bangsamoro authorities seize P1.7M in smuggled cigarettes across two provinces

Authorities in the Bangsamoro regions have seized over P1.7 million worth of smuggled cigarettes across two provinces. The operations took place in Tawi-Tawi and Basilan, with law enforcement turning the confiscated goods over to the Bureau of Customs for further action.

The crackdown involved joint efforts between Philippine Customs and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) to halt illegal trade and pursue those responsible.

In Tawi-Tawi, the bulk of the smuggled cigarettes was discovered in Bongao, valued at P1,031,400. The items were later abandoned, with no one stepping forward to claim ownership. Meanwhile, in Basilan, another batch worth P709,140 was intercepted in Maluso.

All seized cigarettes from both regions were formally handed to the Bureau of Customs for proper disposal. Authorities have also pushed for the prosecution of the perpetrators and the dealer linked to the smuggling operations.

The combined efforts of Philippine Customs and BARMM officials led to the confiscation, reinforcing measures against illegal trade in the Bangsamoro regions.

The total value of the smuggled cigarettes reached P1.7 million. With the goods now in the custody of the Bureau of Customs, investigations continue to identify and charge those involved. The operation marks a step in curbing smuggling activities in the Bangsamoro provinces.