By CESAR JOLITO III
Authorities have dismantled a large-scale illegal cigarette manufacturing and distribution network operating in Negros Occidental, resulting in the arrest of 10 foreign nationals and the seizure of nearly P800 million worth of equipment and tobacco products.
Simultaneous raids were carried out at two identified sites: a warehouse in Bago City and another facility in Bacolod City by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) on April 22 in coordination with the National Tobacco Administration.
These locations were allegedly used for the unlawful manufacture, processing, storage, and distribution of cigarette products.
Authorities arrested 10 Chinese nationals believed to be operating the illegal facilities.
They were identified as Fugong Jiang, Wu Jian Qun, Xu Ke, Li Hong, Ye Jun, A Yac, Tan Jing, Wu Shaobin, Eron Chen, and Pan Zongxing.
Fifteen other individuals, including Filipino workers and one minor, were placed under protective custody.
Seized during the operations were cigarette manufacturing and packing machines, raw tobacco materials, packaging supplies, labels, and large volumes of finished cigarette products.
The total estimated value of the confiscated items reached P799,151,453.54, with over P536 million worth recovered from the Bacolod site alone.
Initial investigation revealed that the illegal operation may have started in the third quarter of 2025 and was allegedly run by foreign nationals.
The counterfeit cigarette products were reportedly distributed across Southern Luzon, Central Visayas, Western Visayas, and Metro Manila, indicating a wide-reaching illicit trade network.
Labor violations?
Authorities are also looking into possible labor exploitation and human trafficking violations after reports that Filipino workers were recruited with a promised daily wage of P500 but were allegedly unpaid and restricted from leaving the premises.
The operation was conducted under CIDG’s flagship anti-illegal economic activity campaign.
Criminal charges are being prepared against the suspects for violations of Presidential Decree No. 1481, Republic Act No. 9208 (Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act), and Republic Act No. 12022, among other possible offenses.
Police chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. commended the operating units and reiterated the police force’s commitment to intensifying efforts against illegal economic activities.
He emphasized that operations against illicit manufacturing, tax evasion and transnational crimes will remain a priority in line to safeguard the country’s economy and national security.
The PNP said the successful crackdown highlights the government’s continued efforts to protect legitimate industries and curb organized criminal enterprises operating under the guise of lawful business./CJ, WDJ