Councilor Caesar Distrito*
The Bacolod City Sangguniang Panlungsod has unanimously approved a resolution commending various law enforcement units for their successful operation that led to the seizure of over P8.3 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in Barangay Tangub.
The interdiction took place in the early hours of July 2 at the Old Airport runway in Barangay Tangub, a press release from Councilor Caesar Distrito said Thursday, July 10.
It was a joint effort by the Philippine National Police–Maritime Group (4th Special Operations Unit), the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group–Negros Occidental, the City Drug Enforcement Unit, the City Intelligence Unit, and the Provincial Intelligence Unit , Distrito said.
Acting on intelligence reports about a motorized boat from Mindanao, authorities intercepted 147 boxes of illicit cigarettes and arrested three suspects involved in the smuggling.
Police Major Karl G. Bonilla, Deputy Commander of the 4SOU-Maritime Group, and his team were praised for their vigilance, professionalism, and courage in preventing the suspects from escaping and ensuring the mission’s success.
Distrito, who authored the SP resolution, emphasized the broader impact of the operation.
He noted that it not only prevented substantial tax losses and protected legitimate businesses but also supported public health policies and local ordinances, specifically City Ordinance No. 09-16-784, which penalizes the possession and sale of cigarettes without proper tax stamps. Distrito also authored this ordinance.
“This operation is a strong statement that Bacolod City will not tolerate smuggling and the circulation of counterfeit tobacco products,” said Councilor Distrito. “We urge these agencies to continue and intensify their campaign in defense of public interest, our economy, and the health of our citizens.”
The Bacolod City Government reaffirms its commitment to inter-agency cooperation and robust enforcement of anti-smuggling laws to ensure a safe, lawful, and healthy community for all Bacolodnons, Distrito added.*