Manila, Jan. 30 -- Some Bureau of Customs (BOC) officials are under investigation for their alleged involvement in the smuggling of cigarettes worth about PHP1.2 billion that were seized in Batangas City last month.

Office of the Commissioner Deputy Chief of Staff Chris Noel Bendijo said the investigation is verifying if the Customs officials, who were not identified, are involved in cigarette smuggling.

"This is presently being investigated and we are closely working and coordinating with HPG (Highway Patrol Group) on this," he said. "The Commissioner will not tolerate this if found to be true."

Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group director Brig. Gen. Hansel Marantan has reported that the owner of the trucks transporting th...