By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has intensified its campaign against illicit tobacco trade after confiscating more than 100,000 packs of suspected illicit cigarettes in Cauayan City, Isabela, with an estimated tax liability exceeding P82.33 million.
In a statement released Monday, the BIR said the seized cigarettes have an estimated market floor price of P9.02 million, but unpaid government taxes are significantly higher, amounting to P81.8 million in excise taxes and P1.53 million in value-added tax (VAT).
The June 25 operation was carried out by BIR Revenue Region No. 3 under the supervision of Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Lorna B. Binarao and Officer-in-Charge Assistant Regional Director Reymarie T. De la Cruz.
The enforcement team was led on the ground by Revenue District Officer Robertson Gazzingan of Revenue District Office No. 15–Isabela, together with Assessment Section Chief Sheila Povan.
Authorities seized the illicit tobacco products during an operation conducted at a hotel in Cauayan City.
The operation was conducted with the assistance of the Philippine National Police, led by CIDG Regional Field Unit 2 chief Col. Rodrigo B. Soriano and Cauayan Component City Police Station Officer-in-Charge Col. Jerry O. Castillo.
Cauayan City Mayor Caesar S. Dy Jr. also joined the enforcement activity, underscoring the local government’s support for the national campaign against illegal tobacco products and tax evasion.
BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza praised the operating teams, saying the successful seizure demonstrates the government’s determination to curb illicit trade and protect public revenues.
“The BIR will continue to strengthen its campaign against illicit tobacco products and other forms of tax evasion. We remain resolute in safeguarding government revenues and ensuring that businesses operate on a level playing field,” Mendoza said.
He added that the operation highlighted the importance of close coordination among tax authorities, law enforcement agencies, and local government units.
“The success of this operation reflects the strong collaboration between the BIR, law enforcement agencies, and local government units,” he said.
The BIR stressed that sustained inter-agency cooperation and strict enforcement of the National Internal Revenue Code remain essential in combating the illegal tobacco trade, holding violators accountable, and protecting legitimate businesses that comply with tax laws.
Officials said the agency will continue pursuing illicit tobacco operators as part of its broader effort to increase tax collection and safeguard government revenues for public services.
ia/xf
