On June 2, 2026, personnel from the Philippine National Police Maritime Group Region 3 confiscated smuggled cigarettes worth ₱198,000 during an entrapment operation in Villa Juana Compound, Barangay Rizal, Pilar, Bataan. The operation led to the arrest of two suspects, aged 32 and 40, whose names were not disclosed. Following a test buy conducted by the police, eight boxes of 'Modern' cigarettes were seized. The arrested individuals are now facing charges for violating Republic Act 8524, which pertains to the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997. This incident underscores ongoing efforts to combat illegal tobacco trade in the region. Furthermore, local government units in Bataan have implemented ordinances prohibiting the sale of cigarettes in local stores, aligning with health authorities' warnings against smoking and vaping.