BIR Seizes 11,309 Illicit Vapes; Nets over P33M in Unpaid Taxes in 5-Region Crackdown

 BIR Seizes 11,309 Illicit Vapes; Nets over P33M in Unpaid Taxes in 5-Region Crackdown

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), seized 11,309 illicit vapor products and uncovered over 33 million in estimated tax liabilities during simultaneous enforcement operations conducted across Metro Manila, Bulacan, Cavite, Batangas, and Laguna.

On Thursday, March 12, multiple BIR revenue regions carried out synchronized inspections and tax compliance verification drives targeting establishments engaged in the illegal sale and distribution of untaxed vape products.

“These operations are part of the BIR’s intensified enforcement against the illegal sale and distribution of untaxed vapor products. In line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen tax compliance and protect government revenues, the Bureau will continue to conduct coordinated enforcement actions against businesses that evade their tax obligations,” said BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza.

“Consistent with the policy direction of Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go under the Department of Finance’s Big Bold Reforms, the BIR will further intensify monitoring and enforcement operations to ensure full compliance with tax laws. Those engaged in the illegal sale of untaxed vapor products should expect decisive enforcement action from the Bureau,” he added.

The BIR reminds businesses selling excisable products to properly register, pay the correct taxes, and affix Internal Revenue Stamps, and calls on the public to report suspected sale or distribution of untaxed or illicit excisable products to help safeguard government revenues and promote fair competition.(BIR FB Page)