The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) filed tax evasion cases worth P8.68 billion against multiple illicit vape companies before the Department of Justice on Tuesday.
In a statement, the BIR said criminal charges were lodged against illicit vape businesses bearing the brand names Flava, Denkat, and Flare.
The BIR did not name the individuals involved in these cases, except to say that all those who want to enter the vape industry must register with the agency and pay taxes.
“This is what happens when you keep violating our tax laws.” BIR commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. said in the statement.
The criminal complaints include unlawful possession of vape products without payment of excise tax and failure to file excise tax returns, all of which violate the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997.
Lumagui said that more criminal cases will be filed against illegal vape traders.
“Celebrities and influencers found to be in conspiracy with illicit vape traders will also be charged in court and imprisoned. Illicit vape ends now,” The BIR chief said.
Lumagui reminded the public to report all stores operating vapes illegally.
Promoters and advertisers of vape products were also reminded to be responsible and promote only legitimate and tax-compliant vape products; otherwise, the BIR will take legal action against them.
Meanwhile, in a separate statement yesterday, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) said that together with the Philippine National Police, it seized a motorboat containing P2.8 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in Zamboanga City.
The motorboat carrying alleged smuggled cigarettes in Sta. Cruz Island, Zamboanga City, was intercepted on April 13.
“The motorboat was intercepted after authorities observed suspicious activity near the island. Upon inspection, the individuals on board failed to present any importation or transport documents to prove the legality of the motorboat’s cargo, raising suspicion of smuggling activity,” the BOC said.
A joint inventory conducted by BOC and PNP personnel confirmed that the motorboat was loaded with 50 master cases and 23 reams of Bravo-brand cigarettes, with an estimated market value of P2.8 million, and the vessel was valued at around P150,000.
The cigarettes were turned over to the BOC and secured inside a Customs-rented warehouse.
“The fight against cigarette smuggling remains a top priority for the bureau, Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said.
