₱15.7M Worth of Smuggled Cigarettes Seized at Checkpoint in Pigcawayan, Cotabato

Authorities seized an estimated ₱15.7 million worth of smuggled cigarettes from six suspects during a checkpoint operation in Barangay Panatan, Pigcawayan, North Cotabato, on Thursday, September 4, 2025.

According to Pigcawayan police chief Maj. Mark John Mutlah, more than 300 boxes of illicit cigarettes were discovered inside two 10-wheeler trucks traveling from Zamboanga Sibugay toward North Cotabato and the Davao region.

He added that the contraband was concealed beneath sacks of charcoal to avoid detection.

The suspects, all residents of Zamboanga Sibugay and Ozamiz City, initially claimed they were transporting charcoal bound for Davao.

Authorities said charges related to smuggling and violations of customs and tax laws are being prepared against the individuals.

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