In a decisive move against illicit trade, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) Port of Cagayan de Oro successfully conducted the public condemnation of smuggled cigarettes and vape products with an estimated market value of ₱188 million on February 16, 2026.
The destruction, overseen by District Collector Atty. Manuel O. Zurbito Jr., involved 4,360 master cases and 10 reams of illicit cigarettes, alongside various sets of vape juice. The operation took place at the Subport of Mindanao Container Terminal in Tagoloan, Misamis Oriental.
The seized goods were the result of aggressive, intelligence-driven operations across several provinces, including:
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Misamis Oriental & Cagayan de Oro
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Lanao del Sur & Lanao del Norte
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Bukidnon
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Camiguin
To ensure environmental compliance and transparency, the BOC utilized hydrolysis and physical destruction methods. The activity was witnessed by a multi-sectoral group composed of partner law enforcement agencies, local government units (LGUs), and private stakeholders.
BOC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno commended the port’s vigilance, noting that the destruction serves as a stern warning to smugglers. “The destruction of these smuggled goods sends a clear message: the Bureau of Customs will not tolerate unlawful importation. We are committed to protecting the public interest, safeguarding government revenues, and ensuring a level playing field for legitimate businesses,” Commissioner Nepomuceno stated.
The Bureau emphasized that cigarette smuggling is not a victimless crime. It deprives the government of vital excise tax revenues used for public services and healthcare, while simultaneously posing unregulated health risks to consumers.
| Item Type | Quantity | Estimated Value |
| Illicit Cigarettes | 4,360 Master Cases + 10 Reams | ₱188,038,350.00 |
| Vape Juice | 24 Sets + 37 Pieces | Included in Total |
This condemnation is part of a sustained, nationwide mandate to suppress smuggling and ensure that illicit goods are permanently removed from the Philippine market.
