The Western Mindanao Naval Command (WMNC) intercepted and apprehended a motorized fishing vessel, M/L Sea Bird, off Basilan last Friday, carrying undocumented tobacco products valued at ₱16,439,542. Lt. Chester Ross Cabaltera, WMNC public affairs officer, reported that the vessel had five crew members and a substantial quantity of assorted tobacco products without legal documentation. The operation revealed violations of Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act), Bureau of Internal Revenue regulations, Executive Order No. 245, and National Tobacco Administration directives, including Memorandum Circular No. 03, Series of 2004. Capt. Hilarion Cesista, acting WMNC commander, emphasized the Navy’s commitment to protecting maritime borders against smuggling and illicit activities. The seized tobacco products included 12 master cases of Fort Menthol (₱687,600), 101 master cases of New Aris Red (₱5,787,300), 49 master cases of Astro White (₱2,807,700), 90 master cases of New Orleans Red (₱5,157,000), 30 master cases of Champion Mild Menthol (₱1,719,000), and 27 reams of Fort Menthol White (₱30,942), with the vessel itself valued at ₱250,000. The seized items were turned over to the Bureau of Customs. (Frencie L. Carreon / MindaNews)
