The Coast Guard District Southwestern Mindanao, in collaboration with BFAR MCS-3001, intercepted a significant haul of smuggled cigarettes valued at approximately 21.6 million pesos.
This operation unfolded during a routine maritime patrol conducted in the waters adjacent to Olutanga Island on March 18, 2024.
The interception targeted the fishing vessel known as MPD TRD Express, which was found to be transporting an estimated 350 boxes of undocumented cigarettes.
Maritime authorities apprehended the vessel and confiscated its illicit cargo.
Following protocol, both the vessel and the contraband were promptly handed over to the Bureau of Customs for further investigation and the initiation of legal proceedings. This seizure marks a significant victory in the ongoing efforts to combat smuggling activities in the region.
Carlo Juancho FuntanillaFrontend Developer, WordPress, Shopify
Contributing Editor
AMA ACLC San Pablo
