Tobacco giant Phillip Morris International (PMI) Inc. commended the Department of Finance (DOF) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for their efforts to stop smuggling attempts in the country which resulted in the seizure of billions worth of illicit cigarettes, tobacco products, and raw materials.

PMI lauded the BOC for its recent seizure of three (3) containers with 1,500 master cases of COO brand Heated Tobacco Products (HTP) worth P90 million at the Port of Subic. The said goods have no import permit from the National Tobacco Administration (NTA) and tax stamps from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).

Similarly, last 6 December 2021, the Port of Subic seized 500 master cases of COO brand HTP without NTA permit amounting to P30 million.

In 2021, the BOC was able to seize P1.71 billion worth of illicit cigarettes and tobacco products through the combined efforts of the Collection Districts, Intelligence Group, Enforcement Group, and the agency partners of the Bureau.

Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo B. Guerrero welcomed the recognition of the PMI. He also lauded the efforts of the Port of Subic, Customs Intelligence & Investigation Service, Enforcement & Security Service, and all other ports and offices in securing the country’s borders and supporting legitimate brand owners.