The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has confiscated over 1.3 million packs of untaxed cigarettes valued at P838 million during two separate raids on warehouses in Quezon City and Caloocan City.
BIR Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr., who led the operations, emphasized the agency's unwavering commitment to combating illicit trade, stating, "this operation demonstrates that we will not stop until illicit trade is completely eradicated."
The raids were conducted by the BIR in collaboration with the Philippine National Police's Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG).
Around 60 BIR personnel and 60 PNP-CIDG officers from the Anti-Fraud and Commercial Crimes Unit participated in the large-scale operation, which began late Thursday evening and concluded early Friday morning.
Lumagui revealed that the seized goods carry a total tax liability of P838 million. He also expressed his appreciation to the PNP-CIDG for their dedication to the fight against illicit trade and encouraged informants to come forward with information on illegal activities.
The BIR plans to file criminal charges against those responsible for the possession and distribution of the contraband cigarettes.