Manila, Feb. 4 -- The Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) is consolidating evidence to build an airtight case against those involved in the smuggling of PHP1.1 billion worth of cigarettes seized in Batangas City in late December.

PNP-HPG spokesperson Lt. Nadame Malang on Wednesday said the move aims to "ensure the filing of strong criminal charges that would lead to the conviction of all those involved," in line with the government's intensified anti-smuggling drive.

In a statement, Malang said investigators have requested additional documents from other agencies to strengthen the case.

"We are still waiting for other documents from other agencies," he said.

Those expected to be charged include a female Bureau of...