Authorities seized an estimated ₱8.5 million worth of illegal cigarettes during an anti-smuggling operation in Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental.
The Philippine National Police Regional Intelligence Division in the Negros Island Region, together with the Bureau of Customs Port of Iloilo and the Philippine Army, confiscated around 8,875 reams and 418 packs of cigarettes.
The seized products included cigarette brands D&B, YS, and Marvels, which authorities believe were being distributed without the necessary permits.
One suspect was arrested and placed under the custody for appropriate legal action.
The operation followed verified intelligence reports of alleged cigarette smuggling in the area.