Bacolod City Council Commends Police for Intercepting P2 Million in Smuggled Cigarettes
The Bacolod City Council has officially approved a resolution praising the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) and Police Station 4 for their alertness and vigilance, which resulted in the voluntary surrender of smuggled cigarettes valued at an estimated P2 million. This commendation, authored by Councilors Caesar Distrito and Psyche Marie Sy, underscores the critical importance of proactive law enforcement in safeguarding public order and government finances.
Details of the Successful Checkpoint Operation
The resolution was prompted by a highly effective checkpoint operation conducted on April 14, 2026, in Purok Herbabuena, Circumferential Road, Barangay Villamonte. During this operation, authorities intercepted a six-wheel panel van that was transporting suspected smuggled cigarettes. The seized shipment included approximately 200 boxes of Tabaco cigarettes and 15 boxes of Cannon cigarettes, all of which are now under police custody. The items are pending turnover to the Bureau of Internal Revenue for proper verification and disposition, ensuring that legal procedures are followed meticulously.
Councilors Highlight Professionalism and Broader Implications
Councilor Caesar Distrito publicly lauded the professionalism and alertness of the police personnel involved in the operation. He emphasized that this incident highlights the critical role of vigilance and proactive policing in protecting both public order and government revenues. "The actions of Police Station 4 demonstrate that effective law enforcement can yield tangible results," Distrito stated, reinforcing the value of dedicated police work.
Councilor Psyche Marie Sy also weighed in, stressing the broader importance of sustained enforcement measures. She pointed out that police checkpoints and increased visibility are proven deterrents against smuggling and other illegal activities. "We must continue and strengthen these efforts to ensure that unlawful goods do not circulate and that the government is not deprived of rightful revenues," she added, calling for ongoing vigilance.
Impact on Government Revenues and Public Services
The councilors further explained that the smuggling of cigarettes and other excisable goods results in significant losses in government revenues, particularly excise taxes. These taxes are vital for funding essential public services and development programs, making such enforcement actions crucial for economic stability. The incident serves as a clear reflection of the effectiveness of checkpoint operations and underscores the importance of continued vigilance among law enforcement agencies in curbing illegal activities across the region.
Call for Sustained and Intensified Efforts
Through the resolution, the City Council has urged the BCPO to sustain and intensify the implementation of police checkpoints while enhancing police visibility throughout Bacolod City. This proactive strategy is aimed at deterring crime and safeguarding public resources, ensuring a safer and more secure environment for all residents. The council's move signals a strong commitment to supporting law enforcement in their ongoing battle against smuggling and related offenses.
