National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag and Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno declared an intensified and uncompromising campaign against smuggling and illicit trade during a joint press conference and inspection of seized illicit cigarettes at Gothong Wharf in Mandaue City on July 11, 2026.
The activity was attended by NBI Regional Director Atty. Dominador Cimafranca, Bureau of Customs Port of Cebu District Collector Atty. Zsae Carrie C. De Guzman, officials and representatives from the Bureau of Customs, the National Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), and other partner law enforcement agencies.
Following the press conference, Commissioner Nepomuceno and Director Matibag led the inspection of twenty-five (25) seized containers loaded with illicit cigarettes valued at approximately ₱980 million, currently secured at Gothong Wharf.
The shipment was intercepted following intelligence information developed and provided by the NBI, which prompted customs authorities to conduct inspection and enforcement operations against the suspected containers. These containers form part of a total of fifty-nine (59) containers of illicit cigarettes intercepted through the Bureau’s continuing enforcement operations, with an estimated aggregate value exceeding ₱3 billion.
The remaining containers are secured in other locations under government custody as enforcement and legal proceedings continue. During the press conference, Commissioner Nepomuceno reaffirmed the BOC’s declaration of an all-out war against smuggling and illicit trade, emphasizing that enforcement efforts will extend beyond the seizure of contraband to the aggressive prosecution of the individuals and businesses responsible.
“Hindi kami maaareglo when it comes to the filing of cases against people and businesses involved in smuggling and illicit trade,” Commissioner Nepomuceno declared. “Hindi titigil ang BOC sa pagkumpiska ng mga iligal na kargamento. Hahabulin natin ang buong supply chain at sisiguruhing mapanagot ang lahat ng sangkot sa ilalim ng buong puwersa ng batas.”
Commissioner Nepomuceno stressed that smuggling is a form of economic sabotage that deprives the government of revenues, harms legitimate businesses, and undermines economic stability. He vowed to relentlessly pursue and hold accountable those involved in illicit trade.
Director Matibag reaffirmed the NBI’s commitment to working closely with the BOC to investigate and prosecute organized smuggling operations. He also announced that a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) among the BOC, NBI, and other partner law enforcement agencies is nearing completion to strengthen intelligence-sharing, joint operations, and coordinated case build-up. The inspection reflects the government’s sustained efforts to dismantle smuggling syndicates through intensified enforcement, stronger inter-agency collaboration, and swift legal action.
In support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s whole-of-government campaign against smuggling and economic sabotage, the BOC will continue to strengthen border security and pursue individuals and businesses engaged in illicit trade.
