Operatives from the Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) seized illegal cigarettes valued at P5,227,837.09 and arrested a 38-year-old woman in Barangay Jolog, Estancia, Iloilo, at 7:45 p.m. on April 23, 2026.
Operation Details
The suspect, identified only as alias Leslie, was apprehended by the Provincial Intelligence Unit of the Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO). The BIR Revenue District Office 75-Northern Iloilo coordinated the arrest under a Revenue Regional Special Order and Mission Order issued by Revenue Region 11. Supporting units included the 2nd Iloilo Provincial Mobile Force Company and the Estancia Municipal Police Station (MPS).
Seized Items
Authorities confiscated 6,494 packs of assorted untaxed cigarettes, including brands such as RGD Classic, Carnival Menthol, Victor Aguila variants, Journey Red, New Mega Green, Thunder Menthol, Modern Cigarettes, Modern 100 Black Menthol, Far-Star King Size, Tattoo Design, and Oris Menthol. The total value of the seized items, including tax penalties, reached P5,227,837.09.
Official Statement
Police Brigadier General Josefino Ligan, regional director of PRO 6, emphasized the government's intensified campaign against illegal trade. "This successful operation highlights our strong partnership with the BIR and our stronger commitment to uphold economic integrity. We will continue to intensify our efforts against all forms of illegal trade. Let this serve as a warning that those who engage in such activities will be held accountable under the full force of the law," Ligan said.
Impact on Revenue and Legitimate Businesses
The operation targets the proliferation of untaxed cigarettes, which deprive the National Government of revenue and undermine legitimate businesses. The IPPO is strengthening coordination with partner agencies like the BIR to sustain enforcement against illicit trade. Authorities reiterated their commitment to dismantle networks involved in the distribution of illegal products.
Legal Action
The suspect is currently in police custody and faces charges for violation of tax and customs laws. The joint operation underscores the government's resolve to hold accountable those engaged in illegal trade activities.
