Senator urges BIR, BOC, DOJ coordination to convict illicit traders

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian called for stronger enforcement and swift prosecution to combat the illicit trade of excisable products, particularly cigarettes and vapes.

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Gatchalian, presiding over a Senate Committee on Ways and Means hearing on April 2, 2025, said unchecked smuggling not only robs the government of revenues but also endangers public health and fuels organized crime.

"Enforcement and prosecution are a more effective way of combating illicit trade than the severity of the punishment. The certainty of being caught and the certainty of being convicted are very important in deterring illicit trade," said Gatchalian.

Department of Health (DOH) director Maria Kristina Mara-sigan said the department supports the Senate's investigation on illicit trade.

"Illicit trade undermines landmark tobacco control policies such as the Sin Tax Reform Law and the Graphic Health Warnings Law."

Federation of Philippine Industries (FPI) chairman Jesus Lim Aranza also cited the need for stronger enforcement against smugglers. "Who should be liable for the dereliction of duty? Why are there no suspects being arrested," asked Aranza.

Philippine Tobacco Institute (PTI) president Jericho Nograles also cited the need for interagency coordination against illicit goods.