THE Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) started destroying the P2.1 billion worth of illicit cigarettes in 12 designated sites yesterday, February 24.
A total of 14.3 million packs of illicit cigarettes with an estimated tax liability of P6.4 billion and illicit cigarette-making machines are up for destruction until February 28.
Digama Waste Management Services in Porac, Pampanga served as the primary destruction hub.
BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. said the destruction of the illicit goods demonstrates the agency’scommitment to eradicating illicit trade and protecting legitimate businesses.
“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to uphold the law and deter illicit activities. This is the rational next step from the nationwide raids we conducted since 2022 and the filing of the criminal cases against these unscrupulous individuals and corporations,” said Lumagui.
The BIR said the destruction of these illicit products also addresses serious public health risks, as cigarettes from unknown sources pose exponentially higher hazards to both consumers and third-party smokers due to the absence of quality control and regulation.
It added that by ensuring that these products do not re-enter the market, the BIR is strengthening revenue collection, protecting the business environment and consumers, and safeguarding public health and safety.
Aside from confiscation and destruction, the BIR has filed multiple criminal cases against individuals and corporations involved in illegal trade.
“The destruction of illicit goods is a crucial step in maintaining the integrity of our revenue collection, protecting the health of our citizens, and safeguarding the interests of legitimate businesses who properly file and pay the correct taxes due to the government,” Lumagui said.
In a separate statement, the Philippine Tobacco Institute (PTI) commended the BIR for the destruction of illicit cigarettes and manufacturing equipment.
The PTI however cited the need to institutionalize the BIR-led Illicit Trade Task Force to ensure a more sustained and strategic approach to combating the proliferation of illicit cigarettes and counterfeit tobacco products.
“A dedicated task force focusing on enforcement, prevention, and intelligence-sharing would strengthen the government’s ability to disrupt illicit networks and hold offenders accountable,” it said.
The PTI assured that it would support government initiatives that that safeguard legitimate businesses, uphold fair market practices, and protect public revenues. (PNA)
