Illicit Cigarette Trade Persists in Central Luzon Despite Crackdown
In spite of rigorous campaigns led by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), the proliferation of illegal cigarettes remains a persistent issue across Central Luzon. Recent enforcement actions have uncovered significant contraband operations, highlighting the ongoing challenges in curbing this illicit trade.
Recent Seizures and Arrests Across the Region
Last week, authorities in Olongapo City confiscated illicit cigarettes in Barangay Pag-asa, as detailed in a police report. This operation was part of a broader crackdown that saw contraband cigarettes valued at approximately Php480,000 seized in Tarlac and Zambales on February 9, resulting in several arrests by the PNP.
Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio Penones Jr., director of the Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3), reported that a 44-year-old woman was apprehended by Gerona Police for selling illicit tobacco. In Capas, Tarlac, a 49-year-old woman was arrested during a buy-bust operation, with over Php50,000 worth of illegal cigarettes recovered from her possession.
Additionally, a 52-year-old individual was taken into custody by San Marcelino Police in another buy-bust operation, leading to the recovery of illicit cigarettes valued at Php60,000. A subsequent follow-up operation resulted in the seizure of contraband cigarettes worth around Php340,000 by the PNP.
Intensified Campaign Against Illicit Trade
According to Brig. Gen. Penones, PRO3 is committed to strengthening its campaign against illicit cigarettes in the region. This resolve follows a major bust where billions of pesos worth of illegal cigarettes were confiscated by the PNP and BOC from a factory in Barangay Panipuan, Mexico, Pampanga.
After authorities raided the facility, Mayor Ruding Gonzales conducted an inspection, prompting public scrutiny. Questions have been raised about how the plant obtained its operating permit and why enforcement efforts often target smaller operators rather than larger-scale players in the illicit trade.
Traffic Violations Observed in Dolores Area
In a related observation from Dateline, numerous motorists have been reported for beating red lights at the traffic signal near St. Jude in Dolores. This violation occurs frequently, particularly at the turn onto Lazatin Boulevard, where heavy trucks and trailer trucks are often involved.
These vehicles are seen racing to bypass the traffic light, causing disruptions for other motorists who have the right of way. Calls have been made for the deployment of traffic enforcers to apprehend offenders, including passenger buses, to ensure smoother traffic flow and enhanced safety in the area.
