Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. led a nationwide raid against illicit vape retailers last October 16, 2024. By current estimates, a total of 408 vape retailers have been found to be selling illicit vape products. Commissioner Lumagui has ordered the BIR to conduct a weekly surveillance and raid of illicit vape retailers after the nationwide raid.
“The BIR Nationwide Raid against illicit vape retailers/resellers last October 16, 2024 shows our aggressive stance against illicit vape. We raided 408 illicit vape retailers. I have ordered weekly raids against illicit vape retailers, wherever they may be found. Walang illicit vape smuggler kung walang illicit vape retailer/reseller,” Commissioner Lumagui stated.
Illicit vape retailers/resellers were found in Bulacan, Manila City, Quezon City, San Juan City, Makati City, Las Pinas City , Pangasinan, Benguet, Isabela, Laguna, La Union, Pasay City, Albay, Iloilo, Cebu, Bohol, Leyte, Bukidnon, Misamis Oriental, Surigao del Norte, Butuan, Agusan del Sur, South Cotabato, Davao, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Ilocos Sur.
Lack of internal revenue stamps and lack of BIR registration of the vape products are the common violations of illicit vape retailers/resellers. The total number of vape products confiscated is still undergoing inventory.
The nationwide raid was a simultaneous enforcement activity. Revenuers conducted a covert surveillance of vape retailers located in their respective regions and districts before the actual raid.
