MANILA, Philippines — Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla said his department has reached out to witnesses linked to two Central Luzon lawmakers allegedly involved in the illegal cigarette trade.
Remulla, who declined to name the congressmen due to the ongoing investigation, said authorities have uncovered four suspected illegal cigarette plants in San Fernando City, Mexico, and San Simon in Pampanga.
“We have witnesses. Some of their associates turned on them. Let’s just wait for what they’ll say,” he told DZBB on Tuesday.
The secretary alleged that the illicit operations were run by a syndicate connected to the lawmakers and hinted the group may be armed. “As long as there’s an abundance of money, there’d be a lot of guns for sure,” he said.
Remulla also confirmed that authorities have raided roughly 200 small retail stores selling contraband to bypass excise taxes. He noted that sales of legal brands like Japan Tobacco and Philip Morris have risen by 24% in January and February, indicating a reduction in illegal cigarette supply.
The crackdown intensified after the creation of a joint task force in December, comprising the DILG, Philippine National Police, Bureau of Internal Revenue, Bureau of Customs, and other agencies.
Small-time store owners may face liability for unpaid taxes but will not face maximum penalties, according to Remulla, who emphasized that authorities are pursuing the “big fish” behind the trade.
