BOC destroys P323.59 million seized smuggled cigarettes

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — At least 5,625 master cases and 1,171 reams of seized smuggled cigarettes were destroyed at a rented warehouse in Barangay Tetuan in this city yesterday.

The cigarettes, with an estimated value of P323.59 million, were confiscated in maritime operations and at inter-agency checkpoints in Zamboanga peninsula, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi from May to November, according to Bureau of Customs (BOC) district collector Arthur Sevilla.

Representatives from the police, Philippine Coast Guard, military, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, local government and Commission on Audit witnessed the destruction of the seized items.

Bureau of Fire Protection personnel drenched the cigarettes in water then crushed them using a payloader.

Sevilla said the disposal of the destroyed cigarettes is expected to be completed  within two days.

He said the BOC-Zamboanga port had destroyed more than P2 billion worth of smuggled cigarettes since January.

Mayor John Dalipe commended the BOC-Zamboanga for its anti-smuggling campaign. Dalipe said the proliferation of smuggled cigarettes has deprived the government of taxes as well as increased tobacco-related health issues.

He said the city government would continue to run after those selling smuggled cigarettes.