THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) conducted a joint inspection operation on February 5, 2026, targeting an alleged illegal cigarette manufacturing facility at Samyoung Global Enterprises in Barangay Panipuan, Mexico, Pampanga.
The operation was prompted by reports of large-scale production and distribution of untaxed cigarettes. This action is part of the government’s intensified efforts to curb smuggling, tax evasion, human trafficking, and other illegal activities that undermine the country’s economy and security.
Authorities are currently assessing the extent of the illegal operations at the facility, including the volume of untaxed cigarettes produced, the identities of those involved, and the potential revenue lost to the government. The investigation aims to bring those responsible to justice and dismantle the illegal cigarette trade network.
