Massive Haul of Smuggled Cigarettes Disposed of by BOC
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has destroyed approximately P595 million worth of smuggled cigarettes at the Port of Zamboanga. The contraband, collected from various maritime patrol operations across the Zamboanga Peninsula, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi between November 2023 and April 2024, included around 8,816 cases and 1,014 reams of illicit cigarettes.
Comprehensive Destruction Process
The illegal cigarettes were dismantled in a warehouse where they were shredded by cutters, soaked with water, and crushed by a payloader. The remains were then disposed of at a sanitary landfill in Barangay Salaan, Zamboanga.
The destruction process was overseen by representatives from the Commission on Audit, Department of Health, local government units, stakeholders, and partner operating units, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Emphasis on Transparency
Port of Zamboanga Acting District Collector Arthur G. Sevilla Jr. highlighted the importance of this operation in combating the illicit tobacco trade. BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio stressed the agency’s commitment to transparency and safeguarding citizens from the dangers associated with smuggled goods.
“The condemnation process plays a crucial role in ensuring the proper disposal of illicit goods… We will make sure that only legitimate products enter our local markets, thus safeguarding our citizens from the dangers associated with the illicit tobacco trade,” Rubio stated.
Additional Context
This significant seizure and destruction underscore ongoing efforts by the BOC to crack down on smuggling operations in the region. The agency’s proactive stance is part of a broader campaign to protect the Philippine economy and public health from the negative impacts of smuggled and counterfeit goods.