The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), in coordination with the Philippine Navy and the Philippine National Police (PNP), seized smuggled cigarettes worth an estimated ₱507 million in a joint anti-smuggling operation off the coast of Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental on May 1, 2026.
Joint Maritime Patrol Leads to Seizure
The operation was conducted by the BIR Revenue Region No. 19 – Davao Region, led by OIC-Regional Director Narciso T. Laguerta and OIC-Assistant Regional Director Aileen A. Punzalan, along with personnel from the Regional Investigation Division. The apprehension stemmed from a routine maritime patrol by the Naval Task Force 71 (NTF71) under Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM), in coordination with the PNP Regional Maritime Unit-Davao.
During the patrol, authorities spotted a suspicious motorized sea vessel that failed to respond to standard maritime challenge procedures. This prompted the joint team to conduct a Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) operation.
Discovery of Illicit Cigarettes
The VBSS operation led to the discovery of 1,246 master cases of illicit cigarettes, believed to have originated from Jolo, Sulu. The vessel, identified as M/B Bukal, was manned by seven Filipino crew members.
The seizure constitutes violations of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amended, Republic Act No. 12022 (Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law), and other laws related to excise taxes, value-added taxes, and graphic health warning compliance.
Documentation and Turnover
Following the apprehension, personnel from NFEM, PNP-RMU-Davao, Davao City Police Office (DCPO) Police Station 4 (Sasa), and the BIR RR19 Strike Team conducted unloading, inventory-taking, and proper documentation of the seized contraband. The illicit cigarettes were turned over to BIR RR19–Davao for disposition, while the crew members were placed under police custody for the filing of appropriate charges.
Commitment to Anti-Smuggling Efforts
This successful operation underscores the BIR's commitment, along with partner agencies, to strengthen enforcement against illicit tobacco trade, safeguard government revenues, and ensure proper taxation of excisable products. It is part of the Bureau's broader campaign to curb smuggling and reinforce tax compliance nationwide.
Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the BIR continues to advance the vision of a Bagong Pilipinas through efficient, transparent, and responsive public service. Sustained enforcement operations are part of the Bureau's revenue protection strategy under its reform agenda, aligned with broader economic policies to strengthen investor confidence, enhance ease of doing business, and sustain economic growth.
