27/08/2026
๐๐๐ฅ, ๐ฃ๐ ๐๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ฆ๐๐จ๐ฆ๐ฆ ๐ ๐๐๐ฆ๐จ๐ฅ๐๐ฆ ๐๐๐๐๐ก๐ฆ๐ง ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ง ๐๐๐๐๐ฅ๐๐ง๐ง๐ ๐ง๐ฅ๐๐๐
BIR Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza met with representatives of Philip Morris Fortune To***co Corporation (PMFTC) on August 5, 2026, to discuss measures to strengthen enforcement against the illicit cigarette trade and untaxed to***co products, including strengthened inspection procedures for imported and exported ci******es.
PMFTC presented the results of its internal Pack Survey, which indicated a decline in illicit cigarette trade, and cited increased field operations by enforcement agencies, including the BIR, Bureau of Customs (BOC), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Philippine National Police (PNP).
The discussion also covered strengthened inspection procedures for imported and exported ci******es.
Representing the BIR were Large Taxpayers Service Assistant Commissioner Edgar B. Tolentino; LTS-Excise Head Revenue Executive Assistant Atty. Dondanon A. Galera; and Atty. Erica Mabel B. Sarmiento of the Office of the Commissioner.
PMFTC was represented by Atty. Chita Herce, Director of Corporate Affairs; Atty. Noel De Luna, Director for Affairs; Atty. Alain Baguisi, Director for Illicit Trade Prevention; and Atty. Aldrick Rubin, Senior Manager for Illicit Trade Prevention.
The meeting forms part of the BIRโs continuing engagement with industry stakeholders in protecting government revenues and strengthening enforcement against illicit trade.