PNP seizes P2-billion smuggled cigarettes in Q1, crackdown continues

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine National Police (PNP) confiscated over P2 billion worth of smuggled cigarettes nationwide in the first quarter of 2026, with efforts ongoing to identify those behind the illegal tobacco trade. There were 3,153 anti-smuggling cigarette operations, conducted from January 1 to March 29, 2026, led to the arrest of 1,187 individuals.