The Bureau of Customs (BOC), in a significant display of inter-agency cooperation, successfully dismantled a large-scale illicit cigarette manufacturing operation during a joint operation on February 18, 2026. The raid yielded an estimated ₱200 million worth of specialized machinery, raw materials, and counterfeit finished products.
The operation was conducted under the authority of Letter of Authority (LOA) No. 02-18-023-2026 and Mission Order No. 02-18-028-2026. The mission targeted significant violations of Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act) and the newly enacted Republic Act No. 12022 (Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act).
From Canned Goods to Contraband
The facility, originally declared as a warehouse for canned goods, was flagged after a concerned citizen reported a pervasive tobacco odor emanating from the premises. Following rigorous surveillance and validation, the BOC Intelligence Group and Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) moved in, supported by:
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Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Intelligence Units
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Philippine National Police (PNP) – CALABARZON & CIDG Cavite
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Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) – Tanza
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Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tanza
The inspection of the warehouse revealed a sophisticated manufacturing setup designed to evade millions in government duties and taxes.
| Item Category | Quantity / Description |
| Machinery | 11 Cigarette manufacturing machines, 1 Forklift |
| Power Supply | 2 Large-scale generator sets |
| Counterfeit Brands | Marlboro, Champion, Canon Menthol, New Orleans, Bros, New Berlin, Commando, Delta, and Troy |
| Tax Evidence | Fake and irregular tax stamps |
“This operation underscores the government’s intensified campaign against smuggling and economic sabotage. We are dismantling activities that deprive the government of revenue and directly harm our Filipino farmers,” the BOC stated, noting the operation aligns with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
The seized items are currently undergoing a final inventory and assessment by the BOC. Authorities are also conducting further investigations to identify the masterminds behind the facility and prepare the necessary criminal charges for economic sabotage and tax evasion.
