Manila, April 16 -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) is considering conducting more intelligence-driven operations following Wednesday's seizure of PHP2.7 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in Cotabato City.

In a statement Thursday, the PNP said the successful operation stemmed from a tip provided by an informant.

"The tip was very critical," PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said, noting that the success of an operation was due in part to "timely information" received by the authorities.

"We are seeing more intelligence-driven operations, and we will continue to strengthen that capability across all units," he added.

The smuggled cigarettes were seized after law enforcers led by personnel from Cotabato City Police Stati...