The Persistence of Cigarette Smuggling: The Case of General Santos City, Southern Philippines

Transnational trade and economic integration have intensified exchanges of goods, but they have also exacerbated the rise of illicit activities, including cigarette smuggling, particularly in General Santos City, Southern Philippines. This study examines how regulatory gaps, enforcement limitations, and economic incentives contribute to the persistence of cigarette smuggling in context. Employing a descriptive case study research design, this study integrates archival research and phenomenological inquiry to analyze the structural and institutional factors. The researchers collected primary data through Key Informant Interviews (KII) with law enforcement officials and industry stakeholders’ who shared their lived experiences. They obtained secondary data from government reports, and electronic records. Findings indicate that the absence of a localized anti-smuggling ordinance, regulatory capture, and resource constraints among enforcement agencies significantly hinder smuggling deterrence. Additionally, the city’s vast coastal geography provides multiple entry points for illicit cigarette shipments, further complicating enforcement efforts. The study underscores the need for a multifaceted response, including local anti-smuggling policies a specialized task force, and interagency collaboration. Addressing this critical issue requires a strategic, evidence-driven, collaborative approach that aligns with broader national and regional policy frameworks.