Caraga: The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Revenue Region No. 17 in the Caraga Region, participated in the nationwide destruction of illicit cigarettes by incinerating smuggled cigarettes valued at over PHP219 million. The destruction event took place at Richmond Plywood Corporation in Purok 1, Barangay Mahogany, under the supervision of RR-17 Director Jose Eric Furia.

According to Philippines News Agency, approximately 337,644 packs of assorted smuggled cigarettes, confiscated on various occasions last year, were incinerated during the activity. Director Furia emphasized that the confiscation was a result of the collaborative efforts of different government agencies in combating smuggling.

The event was attended by top regional officials from the Environmental Management Bureau, the Department of Health, the Department of Trade and Industry, and the Commission on Audit. Director Furia highlighted the importance of vigilance against smuggling activities in the region and acknowledged the support of the private sector in these efforts.