Authorities are investigating a possible large-scale illegal cigarette syndicate in Pampanga, following the discovery of three abandoned cigarette factories believed to be connected to earlier enforcement operations in the province.

During a press briefing in City of San Fernando, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito Victor C. Remulla Jr. revealed that authorities are looking into the possible involvement of a so-called “tobacco lord” and two Central Luzon lawmakers, who are now considered persons of interest.

The abandoned facilities were located in Mexico and San Simon, with security logbooks showing activity as recent as January 29 — the same day another illegal factory was raided. Authorities seized tobacco drying machines, cigarette manufacturing and packing equipment, raw materials, filters, and suspected counterfeit tax stamps.

Officials estimated the confiscated undocumented cigarettes and equipment to be worth around ₱400 million, with each site capable of producing up to ₱160 million worth of cigarettes daily. The companies involved and cigarette brands found were not registered with the National Tobacco Administration, confirming that operations were fully illegal. The sites were also found operating without permits from their respective local government units.

The Philippine National Police pledged to intensify operations against the illegal cigarette trade. PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the police will strengthen intelligence sharing and case buildup against those involved.