11/04/2026
₱1.1-B FAKE CIGARETTE BUST IN CEBU; FOREIGN NATIONALS NABBED
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has dismantled a large-scale illegal cigarette operation in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu, leading to the arrest of several suspects, including foreign nationals, and the seizure of over ₱1.1 billion worth of counterfeit to***co products and manufacturing equipment.
Operatives served a search warrant on a warehouse facility in an industrial park in Barangay Basak on April 10. Inside, authorities discovered thousands of boxes of ci******es bearing suspected falsified tax stamps, along with machines and raw materials used in production.
The suspects, include four Chinese nationals and one Filipino. They are now under police custody and are facing charges for falsification and use of falsified documents under Article 172 of the Revised Penal Code.
PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., said the operation reflects the intensified efforts of the police to shut down illegal manufacturing activities that undermine government revenue and public trust.
“Hindi natin palalagpasin ang ganitong kalaking operasyon. Malinaw na panlilinlang ito hindi lang sa gobyerno kundi sa mamamayan. We will go after those who think they can hide behind warehouses and illegal schemes,” PGEN Nartatez said.
He also warned the public and businesses against engaging in or supporting illicit trade.
“Sa mga negosyante at mamimili, maging mapanuri tayo. Kapag masyadong mura o kahina-hinala ang produkto, malamang ilegal ito. Huwag nating tangkilikin ang ganitong gawain dahil lahat tayo ang naaapektuhan,” he added.
The PNP assured that operations against counterfeit and illegal goods will continue as part of the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, in support of the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to strengthen law enforcement and protect legitimate industries.
This latest operation highlights the PNP’s commitment to delivering results that matter to the public—Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman—as authorities continue to crack down on criminal activities that threaten economic stability and public welfare.
(PNP-PIO)
