The Naval Command Western Mindanao (NCWM) intercepted four vessels transporting approximately P474.1 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in separate maritime interdiction operations across the region, an official confirmed on Wednesday, July 8, 2026.
Details of the Interdiction Operations
Rear Admiral Constancio Arturo Reyes Jr., NCWM commander, stated that the command has intensified maritime security operations to ensure maritime security, maintain peace and order, and protect the country's maritime domain in Western Mindanao. The latest operation occurred on Monday, July 6, when Naval Task Force-61 (NTF-61) intercepted M/V Jepajoy off Tongkil Island in Sulu province. During the Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS), naval personnel discovered 3,068 master cases and 29 reams of undocumented cigarettes with an estimated market value of P474,136,265, according to Reyes. The vessel and its four crew members were brought to the Port of Zamboanga for turnover to appropriate authorities for the filing of charges and further disposition.
Previous Successful Operations
Reyes noted that the latest apprehension follows three successful maritime interdiction operations conducted by NTF-61 operating units from June 23 to July 5 in the waters of Maguindanao del Norte, Zamboanga Sibugay, and Sulu. These operations disrupted the activities of smuggling syndicates and reinforced the government's campaign against the illegal entry of untaxed goods in Western Mindanao.
Commendation and Future Plans
Reyes commended the NTF-61 operating units for their professionalism, vigilance, and unwavering commitment to duty. He emphasized that the NCWM will continue to sustain aggressive maritime security operations to safeguard the country's maritime borders, deny the use of Philippine waters for illicit activities, and protect the Filipino people from transnational crimes that undermine national security and economic stability.
