The Police Regional Office Negros Island Region scored a major accomplishment against illicit cigarette trade following the seizure of 447 master cases of illicit Cannon Menthol cigarettes with an estimated total value of PhP 26,613,100.00 during an intelligence-driven law enforcement operation in Purok Cogon 1, Barangay Alimango, Escalante City, Negros Occidental, on August 25, 2026.

 The operation resulted in the arrest of alias “JC,” Filipino, male, single, 29 years old, and a resident of Purok Ipil-ipil, Barangay Vito, Sagay City, Negros Occidental.

 The operation was conducted by RSOG, PRO NIR, with the support of RID, PRO NIR, RIU, NIR, RMU, NIR, PIU, NOcPPO, Escalante CCPS, and CIDG RFU NIR, following an intelligence information received regarding an alleged transaction involving illicit cigarettes in the vicinity of a Beach Resort in Barangay Alimango, Escalante City.

 Acting on the information, the operating personnel immediately conducted verification and law enforcement action in the area. During the operation, alias “JC” was allegedly found in possession and actual custody of the illicit cigarettes, prompting the subsequent inspection and seizure of the items.

 A total of 447 master cases of Cannon Menthol cigarettes were recovered. The seized cigarette products were reportedly bearing unauthorized tax seals and lacked the required health warning graphic labels, indicating violations of applicable laws and regulations governing the manufacture, distribution, and sale of tobacco products.

 The significant seizure represents one of PRO NIR’s largest recent accomplishments against the illicit cigarette trade, underscoring the PRO NIR’s intensified intelligence gathering, inter-unit coordination, and decisive enforcement operations against the illegal movement of untaxed and unauthorized tobacco products.

 The marking and inventory of the seized items were conducted in the presence of the suspect and witnesses in accordance with established procedures. The arrested individual and the confiscated master cases of illicit cigarettes were brought to Escalante CCPS for temporary custody, documentation, and proper disposition. The appropriate charges shall be filed against the suspect following the completion of the necessary documentation and investigation.

 “This significant seizure demonstrates that our campaign against the illicit trade is not limited to illegal drugs and other criminal activities. We are equally determined to disrupt the illegal movement of untaxed and unauthorized products that undermine lawful businesses and deprive the government of legitimate revenues. This operation is a clear message that those engaged in this trade will face decisive and sustained police action,” said PBGEN ROMANO V CARDIÑO, Regional Director, PRO NIR.

 He further emphasized the importance of intelligence-driven operations and strong coordination among police units and partner agencies in preventing illicit commodities from reaching the market.

 The Police Regional Office Negros Island Region remains firm and relentless in its campaign against illicit trade, protecting communities, legitimate businesses, and government revenues from illegal activities.

The seizure of PhP 26.6 million worth of illicit cigarettes stands as a strong testament to PRO NIR’s intensified intelligence-driven operations, decisive enforcement, and unwavering commitment to public service.

Through Seen, Appreciated, Felt, and Extraordinary Police Service, PRO NIR continues to turn timely information and coordinated action into concrete results, reinforcing a safer, more secure, and peaceful Negros Island Region.