Manila: The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced that it has filed a PHP5.7 billion tax evasion case against five Chinese nationals involved in the illicit cigarette trade in various locations in Valenzuela and Bulacan.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DOJ stated that the charges for violation of Section 258 (Unlawful Pursuit of Business) in relation to Section 236, and Section 263 (Unlawful Possession of Articles subject to Excise Tax without Payment of the Tax) of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997 were filed before the Court of Tax Appeals on March 14. The DOJ emphasized that warrants of arrest for the five accused Chinese nationals are anticipated to be issued promptly.

The case originated from a joint operation by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) targeting illicit cigarettes across six locations in Valenzuela and Bulacan from November 6 to 7 last year. This operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 21,000 master cases of illicit cigarettes, leading to a tax liability of PHP5,764,761,450.

BIR Commissioner Romeo Lumagui Jr. highlighted the significance of this case against the five Chinese nationals, noting it as part of the largest raid against illicit cigarettes. Lumagui asserted the BIR's resolve to pursue every criminal involved in the illicit cigarette trade and warned others involved in such activities.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla underscored that the case demonstrates the capability of responsible government agencies to combat crimes that undermine the economy when they collaborate and intensify their efforts.