Mobo: The Philippine Coast Guard in Bicol (PCG-5) confiscated more than PHP15.7 million worth of undocumented cigarettes during a routine inspection at Mobo Port in Barangay Pinamarbuhan, Mobo, Masbate province on Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, PCG-Bicol commander Commodore Ivan Roldan stated in a phone interview on Wednesday that approximately 630 boxes of cigarettes, suspected to be smuggled and untaxed, were seized from a cargo compartment of a truck. Several boxes were hidden behind garments covered with plastic.

The operation was part of the implementation of Oplan Biyaheng Ayos: Semana Santa and Summer Vacation 2026, during which Coast Guard personnel intensified the inspection of outbound rolling cargoes using K9 paneling and visual inspection before vessel boarding.

Authorities apprehended the vehicle's remaining occupant, who was unable to present importation papers, receipts, or proof of tax payment for the assorted cigarette brands. The confiscated items included 80 boxes of Titanium Red cigarettes, 92 boxes of Titanium Blue cigarettes, 72 boxes of Titanium Green cigarettes, 15 boxes of Two Moon cigarettes, 371 boxes of Mighty Green cigarettes, and a Sinotruck 10-wheeler white wing van with plate number GBD 2959, preparing to board a vessel bound for Pio Duran, Albay.

Roldan emphasized that the incident highlights the Philippine Coast Guard's ongoing efforts to secure the country's ports and prevent the transport of illegal and undocumented goods, particularly during times of increased passenger and cargo movement.