By CESAR JOLITO III

The Bacolod City council urged authorities to sustain intensified enforcement efforts across the city following the confiscation of an estimated P21 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes.

In a resolution, the city council recognized the vigilance of the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) under Director Eugene Rebadomia.

The commendation followed an April 14 operation along Circumferential Road in Barangay Villamonte, where officers flagged down a six-wheel panel van carrying suspected illicit tobacco products.

Authorities reported that the shipment included around 200 boxes of cigarettes and 15 boxes of another brand.

The items are now in police custody and are set to be turned over to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) for verification and proper disposition.

Councilor Cesar Distrito cited the police operation as proof of effective and proactive policing, emphasizing the role of law enforcement in safeguarding both public order and government revenues.

Councilor Pao Sy stressed the need to maintain strong checkpoint operations and police visibility, noting that such measures serve as key deterrents against smuggling and other illegal activities.

The council highlighted that cigarette smuggling continues to cause significant losses in excise tax revenues, which are crucial for funding government programs and public services.

Through the resolution, the council called on BCPO to sustain and further intensify checkpoint operations and visibility efforts as part of a broader strategy to curb illegal trade and protect public resources./CJ, WDJ