Manila, Philippines, October 22, 2024 — The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has announced its plan to intensify efforts against the proliferation of illicit vape products, with weekly raids targeting unauthorized vape retailers across the country. This aggressive crackdown follows a major nationwide operation that took place on October 16, 2024.
BIR Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. emphasized the agency’s resolve to dismantle the illicit vape trade. “I have ordered weekly raids against illicit vape retailers, wherever they may be found. There would be no illicit vape smugglers without illicit vape retailers or resellers,” he stated.
The recent nationwide raid resulted in the closure of 408 vape retailers selling counterfeit or unregistered products. Operations spanned multiple regions, including Bulacan, Manila, Quezon City, San Juan, Makati, Las Piñas, Pangasinan, Benguet, Isabela, Laguna, La Union, Pasay, Albay, Iloilo, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Surigao del Norte, Butuan, Agusan del Sur, South Cotabato, Davao, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Ilocos Sur.
Among the violations committed by these illicit retailers were the absence of internal revenue stamps and failure to properly register their vape products with the BIR.
“The illicit vape industry has been repeatedly warned to comply with BIR regulations. Despite multiple chances, they refuse to follow the law,” Lumagui said. He expressed frustration over the continued defiance of regulations aimed at protecting public health and safeguarding revenue integrity.
In addition to regular surveillance and raids, Commissioner Lumagui revealed that teams have been deployed to investigate and apprehend individuals and businesses involved in the illegal vape trade. “Expect regular raids. Expect criminal cases,” he warned.
The BIR has not yet released the exact number of confiscated vape products, but the agency is committed to enforcing tax laws through ongoing raids to dismantle the illicit vape trade network.
About the BIR:
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is the Philippines’ primary tax authority, responsible for the collection of taxes and enforcement of tax laws. The BIR is committed to safeguarding the nation’s revenue integrity and ensuring compliance with tax regulations to protect public welfare.
