The Philippine National Police (PNP) will intensify its information drive against the sale of smuggled and illegal cigarettes in small neighborhood stores nationwide.
PNP Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered all police commanders to coordinate with local government units and barangay officials to strengthen the campaign, following reports that smuggled cigarettes are widely being sold in small retail shops.
According to Nartatez, store owners must understand that they become part of the supply network of criminal syndicates when they allow such products to be sold in their establishments. The information drive will include identifying brands of smuggled and illegal cigarettes to guide both vendors and consumers.
Earlier, Interior Secretary Juanito Victor Remulla Jr. warned that authorities would conduct raids in public markets and small retail outlets as part of the crackdown on illegal cigarettes. Retailers were given a one-week grace period to stop distribution before stricter enforcement begins.
The PNP also urged the public, especially small store owners, to cooperate and immediately report any information regarding the sale of smuggled cigarettes in their communities.
