Ang Pahayagan

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — Authorities confiscated nearly Php4.9 million worth of smuggled and counterfeit tobacco products and arrested 27 individuals in a series of intensified anti-smuggling operations conducted across Central Luzon in just one week.

According to the Police Regional Office 3, the operations were carried out from April 6 to 12, 2026, resulting in the seizure of thousands of illicit tobacco products, including master cases, cartons, reams, and individual packs of cigarettes.

A total of 220 police operations were conducted throughout the region as part of the intensified campaign against illegal tobacco trade. Authorities reported that the majority of confiscated items were recovered in the provinces of Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, and Pampanga, where enforcement efforts were focused on disrupting the distribution of contraband products.

Jess B. Mendez, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 3, said the intensified crackdown was carried out in line with the directive of Juanito Victor C. Remulla, Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, and Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief of the Philippine National Police, to pursue illegal trade operations that undermine the economy and public safety.

“Hindi lang ito simpleng operasyon. This is about protecting our communities and ensuring that those who profit from illegal trade are held accountable,” Mendez said.

He emphasized that the regional police will continue to strengthen intelligence-driven operations and coordination with other law enforcement units to curb the proliferation of smuggled tobacco products in the region.

“Tuloy-tuloy ang ating operasyon. We remain committed to safeguarding the public and delivering serbisyong mabilis, tapat, at nararamdaman,” the PRO3 chief added. (Jason de Asis)

📸  Nearly Php4.9M worth of smuggled tobacco products were seized by Police Regional Office 3 in a week-long crackdown across Central Luzon, leading to the arrest of 27 individuals and the conduct of 220 operations from April 6–12, 2026. Authorities reaffirm their commitment to intensify efforts against illegal trade to protect the economy and public safety. (Jason de Asis)