Seized cigarettes destroyed

THE government destroyed illicit cigarettes and other related g materials linked to P240.64 million in unpaid taxes in Cebu City on Thursday, Aug. 13, as authorities intensified efforts to curb the illegal tobacco trade.

Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go led the destruction of the seized and forfeited items following enforcement operations conducted by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Revenue Region No. 13 from October 2024 to June 2025.

The BIR’s Regional Strike Team carried out the operations against illegal cigarette manufacturing, storage and distribution activities in Cebu.

The operations yielded various illicit tobacco products and materials used in their production.

This includes counterfeit Internal Revenue stamps, manufacturing machines, cigarette raw materials, packaging materials, chemicals and other production supplies.

The BIR placed the aggregate tax liabilities arising from the unlawful manufacture, possession, storage and distribution of the seized illicit cigarettes at P240,641,547.71, including administrative penalties.

Go said the government loses revenue when traders misdeclare or fail to declare products subject to excise taxes.

He identified tobacco, liquor and fuel as among the products commonly subject to misdeclaration or non-declaration because they carry excise taxes.

He also cited agricultural products as another common category, although for a different reason.

Go said the government could have used the foregone revenue to fund programs and provide services to the public.

“We have foregone revenue that could be used to help the programs of the government and help the people of our country,” Go said.

He also pointed to the health risks associated with illicit tobacco products.

He said consumers may unknowingly use illegal products that could have serious consequences on their health.

The destruction in Cebu also highlighted the continuing coordination between the BIR and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in going after illicit tobacco.

Go said the two agencies seized a combined P1.7 billion worth of illicit tobacco products in June and July 2026.

He said much of the seized tobacco remained in the custody of the BOC and was undergoing the process with the appropriate council.

Go commended both agencies for their continued efforts to detect, seize and dismantle illicit trade operations.

“It’s not easy,” Go said, referring to the agencies’ enforcement work.

He assured that the Department of Finance would continue

supporting the BIR and BOC as they strengthen enforcement against illicit trade.

“We will continue to strengthen enforcement and hold those who engage in illegal activities accountable,” Go said.

For Go, the government’s campaign against illicit tobacco serves

both revenue and public protection objectives.(MyTVCebu)

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• #Finance Secretary Frederick Go
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