BIR, NBI seize 22 containers of illicit cigarettes in Manila North Harbor

MANILA, Philippines — In a joint operation with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), through the Revenue Region No. 6-City of Manila and Palawan province, and its Regional Investigation Division (RID), moved against a large shipment of illicit cigarettes at the container yard of Carlos A. Gothong Lines, Inc. in North Harbor, Tondo, Manila, on June 22, 2026.

Acting on NBI intelligence, BIR Regional Director Remir Macatangay signed Mission Orders authorizing BIR RR6 RID personnel, together with NBI operatives, to inspect and effect the constructive seizure and detention of 22 container vans believed to be carrying illicit cigarettes without the required internal revenue stamps.

The BIR initially estimated the volume involved at approximately 30,800 master cases of illicit cigarettes.

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Of the 22 container vans seized, 10 have already been inspected and found to contain unstamped cigarettes, while the remaining containers are being inspected, verified, and inventoried.

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READ: BIR seizes P516M worth of illicit cigarettes in Valenzuela

Some of the brands seized include Modern cigarettes, Dani, Nise Baisha, H&P Aqua Blue, H&P Gold, H&P Red, BRO Red, and D&J Premium.

Commissioner Charlito Martin R. Mendoza said the operation shows the BIR’s firm and continuing enforcement against illicit cigarettes and other unlawful excisable goods.

READ: BIR ops net 185,000 illicit cigarette packs, P43M in tax liabilities

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“We will continue to intensify enforcement operations and work closely with the NBI, the Bureau of Customs, and other partner agencies to stop the illicit cigarette trade. These coordinated efforts are necessary to protect revenues, support legitimate businesses, and uphold compliance with our tax laws,” Commissioner Mendoza said.

In coordination with the Bureau of Customs (BOC), the subject container vans will be constructively sealed and secured in a designated area pending further verification and inventory. The Philippine Coast Guard will likewise be requested to provide security and maintain custody of the container vans until the scheduled joint inventory and counting by representatives of the BIR, NBI, and the BOC. /cb

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