P441 Million Cash Seized at Mactan Cebu International Airport Amid Money Ban Implementation

Authorities intercepted a staggering P441 million in cash at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport on Friday night, leading to the detention and investigation of eleven individuals nine foreign nationals and two Filipinos.

The massive amount of money was discovered inside suitcases believed to be in the possession of the suspects, who were reportedly bound for Manila via a chartered flight.

Initial investigations suggest that the group attempted to transport the funds out of Cebu just as the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) began enforcing its election-related money ban starting today. The ban prohibits the unauthorized transfer of large sums of money during the election period to curb vote-buying and other illegal activities.

Authorities have not yet disclosed the nationalities of the foreign suspects or the purpose of the money, but sources say that further scrutiny and coordination with other agencies, including the Bureau of Immigration and the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), are underway.

Law enforcement officials have confirmed that all individuals involved are now under custody and will face charges if violations of the law are established.

The COMELEC has reiterated its commitment to strictly enforce the money ban as part of efforts to ensure clean and honest elections.

This incident marks one of the largest cash interceptions in recent memory, raising alarms over potential election-related financial activities.