Philippine police seize illegal cigarettes and e-cigarettes worth USD 206,400, arrest four suspects

Key Points

• Location – Silang, Cavite, Philippines.
• Total Value – ₱12 million (approx. USD 206,400), consisting of ₱5.04 million in undocumented cigarettes and ₱6.96 million in unregulated vape products.
• Enforcement Unit – Laguna Provincial Field Unit of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), under the supervision of Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.
• Operation Details – A buy-bust operation led to the discovery of an unlicensed cigarette and vape production facility; about 200 pieces of evidence were seized.
• Legal Basis – Violations of Republic Acts 8293, 10643, and 7394.
• Official Statement – PNP pledges to continue dismantling illicit networks that harm consumers and legitimate trade.

2Firsts, November 27, 2025 — According to Manila Times,the Philippine National Police’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) raided an illegal facility in Silang, Cavite, seizing ₱12 million worth of counterfeit cigarettes and unregulated vape products, resulting in four arrests.

According to CIDG, the confiscated goods included ₱5.04 million worth of undocumented cigarettes and ₱6.96 million worth of unregulated vape products. The suspects were caught selling illicit cigarettes and running an unlicensed vape manufacturing setup without permits or documentation.

A coordinated buy-bust operation, supported by a tobacco industry representative, confirmed the suspects’ involvement in illegal trade. A follow-up search uncovered a production area containing filling and sealing machines, molds, tools, and gallons of vape juice.

Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said such operations damage both public safety and lawful commerce:

“Smuggling operations hurt our communities and endanger consumers. We cannot let this illicit trade continue.”

PNP Spokesman BGen. Randulf Tuaño praised the joint operation, citing effective collaboration between law enforcement, private sector partners, and community informants.

All suspects are now under CIDG custody and will face charges for violations of RA 8293, RA 10643, and RA 7394. The PNP reiterated its commitment to intensified anti-smuggling operations in support of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to protect public health and maintain lawful commerce.

Image source: Manila Times