Malabang: Acting on a tip, police authorities recovered several unattended boxes of imported cigarettes, estimated to be worth PHP12.8 million, along the coastline of Malabang, Lanao del Sur on Thursday. Col. Caezar Cabuhat, Lanao del Sur police provincial director, stated that joint police teams found 220 boxes of assorted cigarettes, including 120 boxes of Fort brand, 25 boxes of Berlin, and 75 boxes of San Marino, at about 2 a.m. in Barangay Bunkhouse of the town.

According to Philippines News Agency, residents were surprised to learn such a huge amount of contraband existed in their community. Cabuhat mentioned that police have conducted various law enforcement operations against smuggling in Lanao del Sur since January this year, resulting in the recovery of about P50 million worth of contraband during the first two months of 2026.

Cabuhat emphasized that this achievement reflects their firm commitment to uphold the law and protect their communities.