PNP Intensifies Nationwide Campaign Against Illegal Cigarette Operations
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has significantly escalated its nationwide campaign targeting illegal cigarette manufacturing and distribution networks. PNP Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. issued a stark warning, stating that billions of pesos in illicit profits from this trade could be fueling organized crime and various unlawful activities across the country.
Major Raids Uncover Sophisticated Operations in Pampanga
In a recent development, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) discovered three additional warehouses located in the towns of Mexico, San Fernando, and San Simon in Pampanga. These facilities are allegedly being utilized for the large-scale production of illegal cigarettes. During an inspection on Monday, February 16, 2026, Nartatez, alongside Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, oversaw the operations at these sites.
The CIDG seized over P400 million worth of manufacturing machinery and raw materials from the warehouses. Secretary Remulla noted that the abandonment of these three warehouses followed a raid conducted in the first week of February in Mexico town, where authorities rescued more than 60 illegally recruited Filipino workers.
Intelligence Points to 'Deeper Criminal Structure'
Chief Nartatez emphasized that the scale and sophistication of the uncovered operations indicate a "deeper criminal structure." Based on intelligence reports, he revealed that a so-called "tobacco lord" and two lawmakers from Central Luzon are allegedly financing these illegal activities. "This is not just about tax evasion -- this is organized crime," Nartatez declared.
He warned that the substantial revenues generated from the illegal cigarette trade, estimated to run into billions of pesos, may be diverted to other serious illicit activities. These include arms smuggling, human trafficking, and even the financing of private armed groups, posing a significant threat to national security.
Financial Investigation and Inter-Agency Coordination
Investigators are now meticulously mapping out the financial trail behind the illegal cigarette network. They are examining how funds move across different regions and identifying individuals involved at every level of the supply chain. The PNP is coordinating closely with the Bureau of Customs and other enforcement agencies to track the flow of goods and money.
This collaborative effort is part of a broader strategy to dismantle what Nartatez described as the "ecosystem" supporting the illegal trade. "We will not allow this to become a source of funding for various types of crimes in our country," he asserted.
Legal Actions and Public Appeal
Secretary Remulla highlighted that the most severe consequence for those involved is the forfeiture of properties under the Anti-Agricultural Sabotage Act. "Properties in Mexico, San Simon, all of those will come under government control," he stated, noting that the Department of Justice will file for forfeiture.
Nartatez issued a stern warning to the alleged perpetrators, asserting that political influence or financial clout will not provide protection from prosecution. "No amount of money, influence, or political connections can protect those behind this. Whoever is involved -- whether a so-called 'tobacco lord' or a public official -- we will go after you," he vowed.
The PNP chief also appealed to the public for support, emphasizing that every pack of illegal cigarettes represents lost revenue for essential public services, particularly healthcare. "Each pack of illicit cigarettes is stolen funding from our health services and infrastructure. Let us not support illegal products," he urged.
Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious warehouses, unlicensed factories, or trucks unloading undocumented goods in their communities. Tips can be relayed to the nearest police station or through the government’s Unified 911 system. The PNP has assured the public that the identities of informants will be protected and that authorities will act promptly on all credible reports.
With this expanded campaign, the police force aims not only to shut down illegal cigarette manufacturing plants but also to sever the financial pipelines that may be sustaining broader criminal networks throughout the nation.
