Davao de oro: The Philippine Navy seized a motorboat carrying PHP44 million worth of undocumented cigarettes off the coast of Davao de Oro last week, officials reported Monday. Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao personnel aboard a patrol boat intercepted the vessel, M/B QAISAR, about 3 nautical miles northwest of Pantukan on the evening of Jan. 15.

According to Philippines News Agency, the boat, manned by 13 Filipino crew members, was found loaded with 1,118 boxes of cigarettes in violation of customs and tobacco regulations. The vessel's master skipper admitted the contraband originated from Jolo, Sulu, and was destined for transfer to smaller boats for local distribution.

After medical checks for the crew, the Bureau of Internal Revenue-Davao inspected and took custody of the cargo and motorboat. 'This successful operation underscores NFEM's continued commitment to safeguarding the country's maritime domain and enforcing laws against smuggling and other illegal maritime activities,' NFEM said.