The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), in coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), has seized over 81,000 illicit vape pods, with an estimated tax liability of more than P543 million.
BIR Commissioner Romeo 'Jun' Lumagui Jr. announced in a Facebook post that a successful raid was carried out on May 8 at a residential compound in Marilao, Bulacan, where the illegal vape products were discovered.
"Criminals engaged in illicit vape are already using houses and residential compounds to hide their illegal activities. In this house in Marilao, Bulacan we discovered 81,200 illicit vape pods with more than 540 Million in tax liability, including penalties. These criminals are now hiding in houses and villages, thinking that we cannot reach them. Think again," said Lumagui.
A total of 406 master cases labeled ‘TEAM PAPA,’ containing around 81,200 vape pods, were found inside the garage of the residential compound.
Lumagui pointed out that the vape products lacked BIR-issued excise tax stamps, which is a clear violation of the amended National Internal Revenue Code of 1997.
With this, the individuals involved may face charges for violating several provisions of the Tax Code, including Section 258 – Unlawful Pursuit of Business; Section 263 – Unlawful Possession or Removal of Articles Subject to Excise Tax Without Payment of the Tax; and Section 254 – Attempt to Defeat or Evade Payment of Taxes.
The BIR official urged the public to report any individuals or establishments selling illegal vape products in their area to the agency.
The confiscated items have been placed in the custody of the BIR, while both agencies are jointly preparing cases for violations of the National Internal Revenue Code.
