Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday vowed to secure the dismissal and prosecution of six Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel arrested in an anti-cigarette smuggling operation in Misamis Oriental. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said he has ordered the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to help build a strong case to ensure the suspects' conviction.

According to Philippines News Agency, Nartatez expressed his dismay, stating, "It is highly unfair that while our men and personnel of other government agencies that include PCG personnel themselves are risking their limb and life against smugglers, these people were actually in cahoots with them." He further assured that in coordination with PCG leadership, the involved Coast Guard personnel would face dismissal and possible jail time.

During the operation, authorities recovered 205 master cases of smuggled cigarettes valued at PHP3.075 million and an L-300 van. The illegal goods were discovered inside a Coast Guard sub-station along the shoreline of Purok 5, Poblacion, in Naawan town. The raid led to the arrest of the PCG personnel and a civilian suspect, who were reportedly caught off guard.

Nartatez highlighted the potential existence of a network of connivance for both smuggling and distribution, noting that the arrested individuals were stationed at various sub-stations. He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to hold all involved accountable.

The PNP has already submitted its report to PCG leadership, and both agencies are coordinating further investigation efforts. The PCG has also launched its independent inquiry into the incident.

PCG Spokesperson, Commodore Noemie Cayabyab, stated that the PCG is cooperating fully with the PNP to ensure a comprehensive and impartial investigation. She reiterated that the PCG maintains a zero-tolerance policy against any form of illegal activity and assured that personnel found guilty would face severe consequences, including dismissal and forfeiture of benefits.

Cayabyab emphasized that the incident does not reflect PCG's standards, reinforcing the organization's commitment to integrity and accountability in public service. She assured the public of decisive actions to uphold institutional integrity and maintain public trust.

According to a police report, two of the detained PCG personnel were assigned to the PCG Southwestern Northern Mindanao, while the others were from sub-stations in Laguindingan, Lugait, Libertad, and El Salvador City.