Police operatives apprehended a 28-year-old man during an enforcement operation against illegal cigarette products at the New Public Market in Barangay Poblacion, Sagay City, Sunday morning, Dec. 28.
The suspect, identified by the alias “Johary,” is a resident of Purok Toril, Barangay Balintawak, Escalante City.
The police said the jobless suspect was caught in possession of various cigarette brands lacking the mandatory graphic health warnings required by Philippine law.
Authorities recovered several reams and packs of unauthorized cigarettes with a total estimated market value of P44,500.
The suspect is expected to face charges related to the violation of Republic Acts governing tobacco tax and health warning requirements.*