PNP Chief Nartatez Orders Crackdown on Smuggled Cigarettes Sold in Sari-Sari Stores
Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has issued a directive for an intensified information campaign, specifically targeting sari-sari store owners across the nation. The campaign warns against the purchase and sale of smuggled and illegally manufactured cigarettes, which are reportedly being distributed through small retail shops nationwide.
Coordinated Efforts with Local Authorities
In a statement released on Sunday, February 22, 2026, Nartatez instructed police chiefs to work closely with local government and barangay officials. This collaboration aims to strengthen public awareness and combat the proliferation of illicit tobacco products. The PNP chief emphasized that the campaign is designed to educate store owners about the severe implications of their actions.
"We have to make sari-sari store owners fully understand that they are becoming enablers of smuggling and illegal manufacture of the cigarettes the moment they agree to sell them to their customers, and there are legal consequences in doing that," Nartatez stated. He highlighted that by selling smuggled cigarettes, retailers are effectively supporting criminal syndicates involved in illegal importation and manufacturing operations.
Supporting Presidential Directive and Revenue Protection
Nartatez explained that this initiative aligns with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., which was relayed through Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla. The goal is to dismantle smuggling operations that deprive the government of crucial revenues intended for social services. As part of the campaign, authorities will educate retailers on how to identify smuggled and illegally manufactured cigarette brands, ensuring they can distinguish legitimate products from illicit ones.
"This is part of our continuing strategy to eradicate the illegal tobacco supply chains and prevent its impact on public revenues," Nartatez added. Remulla had earlier warned that raids would be conducted in public markets and small retail outlets to dismantle the illegal cigarette supply chain. Retailers were given a one-week grace period to dispose of their smuggled cigarette stocks and cease distribution, with enforcement targeting not only manufacturers but also small-time distributors and sellers.
Legal Penalties and Public Cooperation
Under Republic Act 12022, individuals involved in the sale and distribution of smuggled agricultural products face stiff penalties. Nartatez appealed to the public, especially small store owners, to cooperate with law enforcement by reporting the sale of smuggled tobacco products in their communities. "We appeal to the public, especially small store owners, to cooperate with authorities in this campaign to curb the sale of these smuggled cigarettes," he urged.
Recent Enforcement Success in Central Visayas
Meanwhile, Nartatez commended the Police Regional Office in Central Visayas for conducting simultaneous operations in Cebu City on February 19. These operations resulted in the seizure of 135,936 packs of illegal cigarettes, with an estimated value of P138,099,550.34. The confiscated items were documented and placed under the temporary custody of the Bureau of Internal Revenue.
The operation was carried out in coordination with the Bureau of Internal Revenue Regional Strike Group and BIR Revenue Region 13. The PNP affirmed that monitoring and enforcement operations against the distribution and sale of smuggled and counterfeit tobacco products will continue to ensure compliance with the law and protect public interests.
