Manila: Some Bureau of Customs (BOC) officials are under investigation for their alleged involvement in the smuggling of cigarettes worth about PHP1.2 billion that were seized in Batangas City last month. Office of the Commissioner Deputy Chief of Staff Chris Noel Bendijo stated that the investigation is verifying if the Customs officials, who were not identified, are involved in cigarette smuggling.

According to Philippines News Agency, the investigation is a collaborative effort with the Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (HPG). Bendijo emphasized the seriousness of the matter, stating, "This is presently being investigated, and we are closely working and coordinating with HPG on this. The Commissioner will not tolerate this if found to be true."

Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group director Brig. Gen. Hansel Marantan has reported that the owner of the trucks transporting the smuggled cigarettes is a spouse of a female Customs officer. Authorities intercepted the 14 trailer trucks containing suspected smuggled cigarettes in Barangay Singko Roon, Balete, Batangas on December 31.

The bureau recently acted on a letter reportedly sent by concerned BOC officials and employees to the Office of the President. The letter alleged that smuggling activities returned to the Port of Manila during the watch of Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service field station chief Paul Oliver Pacunayen, who was relieved while awaiting investigation.