VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur – Top government and tobacco industry stakeholders in this province and the Ilocos region are set to gather for the two-day International Tobacco Agricultural Summit on Oct. 23 and 24 organized by the Department of Agriculture-National Tobacco Administration in Quezon City.

The summit, now on its second year, with the theme “Advancing the Local Tobacco Industry and Combating Illicit Trade” aims to address the growth of the Philippine tobacco industry and the challenges posed by illicit trade.

Expected to attend the event are Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman, Internal Revenue Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr., Jericho Nograles, president of the Philippine Tobacco Institute, and Agriculture Undersecretary Deogracias Victor B. Savellano.

The first day will focus on global trends, opportunities, and strategies to strengthen the Philippine tobacco sector’s growth in the global market. 

The second day will delve on the scope of the illicit tobacco problem in the  country, strengthening regional cooperation, and intensifying the enforcement actions of the Philippine government.

 “The summit aims to underscore the importance of the local tobacco industry in the economy, explore opportunities for growth, and strengthen collaborative efforts to combat illicit tobacco trade,” NTA Administrator Belinda Sanchez said.

“It will serve as a platform for stakeholders from government and industry to discuss challenges and strategies for industry growth and improved enforcement against this illicit trade,” she added.

Sanchez said the event will also highlight policy measures, enforcement strategies, and potential collaborative efforts with industry stakeholders to address the issue effectively.

“The illicit tobacco trade remains a significant challenge, adversely impacting government revenues, public health, national security, and the livelihoods of Filipino farmers. The illegal trade undermines legitimate businesses and leads to substantial revenue losses, affecting resources for public services like universal health care,” Sanchez said.

“Moreover, proceeds from illegal tobacco sales are often linked to organized crimes, further threatening national security,” she added.

Sanchez noted that to counter these risks, there is an urgent need for a multi-faceted approach that includes strengthening national policies, enhancing regional cooperation, improving enforcement mechanisms, and increasing public awareness.

“A coordinated approach will help mitigate the impact of illicit trade, ensuring a more stable and secure environment for the tobacco industry,” she said.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue estimated that the national government incurred revenue losses of up to P100 billion annually due to illicit tobacco trade.

Data from the NTA showed there are 2.2 million Filipinos who are financially dependent on tobacco, including more than 430,000 farmers, farm workers, and their families.