Personnel from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), through Coast Guard District Bicol (CGDBCL), seized undocumented cigarettes amounting to Php 15,750,000 during a routine inspection at Mobo Port, Brgy. Pinamarbuhan, Mobo, Masbate this week.
The operation was conducted by Coast Guard Mobile Team (CGMT) Mobo and Coast Guard K9 Team Mobo, in coordination with the Mobo Municipal Police Station (MPS), in connection with the implementation of Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa and Summer Vacation 2026.
A 10-wheeler wing van truck declared it was carrying used clothing that was subjected to inspection after the truck helper failed to present the necessary supporting documents. Upon inspection, 630 boxes were discovered with an estimated market value of Php 15,750,000.00, later confirmed that the boxes contained undocumented cigarettes.
The truck helper was immediately apprehended, while the truck driver fled the scene and remains at large.
The confiscated items were secured, and the apprehended individual was turned over to the Mobo MPS for proper disposition and filing of appropriate charges.
The PCG continued vigilance in securing the countryโs ports and preventing the transport of illegal and undocumented goods, especially during periods of increased passenger and cargo movement.