Manila, Philippines — The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) will not be taking a holiday break from confiscating illegal vape and tobacco products as the agency places its enforcement operations on heightened alert.
This comes after the BIR received reports indicating a continued increase in the entry of illegal products into the market, based on intelligence and market information, as the Christmas season approaches.
According to the BIR, the agency has already instructed its regional and enforcement offices to intensify monitoring of suspected locations, warehouses, distribution channels, and retail outlets that store and sell these illegal products.
The BIR also said that it will continue its campaign and operations to destroy confiscated vape and tobacco products.
Violators found to have no legal documentation, to be non-compliant with the law, and to be failing to pay the proper taxes will face the appropriate complaints and legal charges.
The agency also encouraged legitimate industry players and retailers, as well as the general public, to provide information to the BIR regarding suspicious manufacturers and storage facilities involved in the sale of vape and tobacco products.