BIR files P797-M tax evasion raps vs illicit cigarette ops

MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said on Monday it had filed tax evasion cases against two large-scale illicit cigarette operations that resulted in estimated tax deficiencies amounting to P796.95 million.

BIR said that the cases were filed before the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) last July 1, after the Department of Justice ruled in favor of the bureau.

READ: Economist urges review of excise tax rates on cigarettes in PH

The BIR charged the lessee of a warehouse located in Brgy. Ugong, Valenzuela City, for the unlawful possession of goods subject to excise taxes.

Another case was likewise filed against a Chinese national believed to be operating an illegal cigarette manufacturing facility in Brgy. Moranquillo, San Rafael, Bulacan.