In a major blow to illicit trade, authorities intercepted a cargo truck loaded with suspected smuggled cigarettes and used clothing (ukay-ukay) at the Port of Dumaguete on May 20, 2026.
The successful interdiction was the result of a swift, coordinated operation between the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Port Police of the Port Management Office Negros Oriental/Siquijor (PMO NOS).
Acting on timely intelligence, joint operatives conducted a thorough inspection of the Siquijor-bound vehicle while it was still stationed at the port’s docking area. The inspection uncovered:
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50 boxes of suspected smuggled cigarettes
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4 bales of undocumented ukay-ukay (used clothing)
The entire shipment was bound for delivery to the island province of Siquijor. “This operation highlights the seamless coordination between our maritime and customs enforcement units. We remain vigilant in securing our ports against the entry of illegal and unregulated goods that undermine local industries and government revenue,” said Port Authorities in statement.
Following the discovery, the seized products were immediately placed under a hold order. The truck and its illegal cargo were transferred to the Customs compound for mandatory inventory and securing.
An in-depth verification and investigation are currently underway to identify the origin of the shipment, as well as the individuals behind the smuggling attempt. The case is being processed in strict accordance with Republic Act No. 10863, otherwise known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).
