BACOLOD City — A coordinated crackdown by local government units and national law enforcement agencies has uncovered a large-scale illicit cigarette operation spanning Bacolod City and Bago City, raising concerns over public health risks, tax losses, and unfair competition against legitimate businesses.
Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya confirmed that authorities are closely monitoring developments following the discovery of a warehouse in Barangay Alijis, this city, allegedly used to store raw materials for illegal cigarette production.
The facility reportedly contained millions of pesos worth of packaging materials and related paraphernalia.
The mayor credited the swift action of the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), the city’s Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO), the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the Bureau of Customs, the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), and the Philippine Coast Guard for their coordinated response.
“We commend the PNP and other agencies for their continued efforts to apprehend illegal activities in our area,” Gasataya said.
He added that the city government will provide full support to prevent activities that harm public health and the local business sector.
“We assure the people of Bacolod that there will be no letup in going after these illegal operations,” he added.
Authorities said the Bacolod discovery on April 21, 2026 was linked to an earlier operation on the same day in Barangay Calumangan, Bago City, where a suspected cigarette manufacturing facility was dismantled.
During the raid, 13 individuals were arrested, including Chinese nationals, while equipment such as loader machines and packaging units were seized.
Bago City Mayor Mayette Javellana commended authorities for what she described as a successful operation against illegal activities.
She stressed that the discovery highlights the urgent need for stronger monitoring and tighter inter-agency coordination.
“We will not tolerate any illegal operations, especially those that evade taxes and harm our local economy and the welfare of our people,” Javellana said.
She has ordered a full investigation to determine whether the facility had proper permits and to identify those responsible.
Police officials said investigations are ongoing to establish the ownership and operations behind the warehouse network. Authorities are validating information and gathering evidence to build cases against those involved.
Local officials from both cities have assured the public that efforts will continue to protect residents and legitimate businesses from the harmful effects of illicit trade.
The joint operations signal a firm stance by Negros authorities against illegal cigarette production and distribution, with more enforcement actions expected in the coming weeks./PN
