We cannot trust the tobacco industry in the fight against illicit trade

On Nov. 25, the Philippine Star published an opinion piece by Marichu Villanueva entitled “Defying the odds.”

- PIA RODRIGO

The piece attacked illicit tobacco trade, a phenomenon that health advocates have likewise flagged as a threat to public health and government revenue. However, in the process of condemning those who participate in illicit trade (specifically unregistered cigarette brands), the article also whitewashes what the author calls “legitimate tobacco manufacturers” or registered tobacco brands.

“There is a world of difference between those who comply with the law and contribute to national development, as against those who operate in the shadows, undermining both revenue collection and public health and welfare,” the piece read.

Let’s get one thing straight: illicit tobacco is dangerous. When tobacco is cheap, it entices the price-sensitive youth. It defeats the purpose of raising tobacco prices through taxation to deter consumption. But all kinds of tobacco, whether licit or illicit, kill. Paying the legally mandated excise taxes does not give registered tobacco companies a pass or excuse them from “feeding nicotine addiction and endangering the public health system,” which is what the author only accuses unregistered brands of.