BIR Night Raid results in the seizure of over 81,000 illicit vape pods with over ₱543 Million in tax liabilities

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Illicit Vape Criminals have resorted to using Houses and Garages to hide their illicit vape products

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), headed by Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr., seized illicit vape products with ₱543,739,072.80 in tax liability, including penalties, during a joint enforcement operation with the National Bureau of Investigation last May 8, 2025. The night raid was conducted at a residential compound in Marilao, Bulacan. 

Inside the garage of the raided house 406 master cases containing an estimated 81,200 vape pods under the brand “TEAM PAPA” were confiscated. Said vape products were discovered without the mandatory BIR-issued excise stamps, in clear violation of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amended (Tax Code). 

"Criminals engaged in illicit vape are already using houses and residential compounds to hide their illegal activities. In this house in Marilao, Bulacan we discovered 81,200 illicit vape pods with more than 540 Million in tax liability, including penalties. These criminals are now hiding in houses and villages, thinking that we cannot reach them. Think again." Commissioner Lumagui stated.

The perpetrators face possible charges for multiple violations of the National Internal Revenue Code, including: Section 258 – Unlawful Pursuit of Business; Section 263 – Unlawful Possession or Removal of Articles Subject to Excise Tax Without Payment of the Tax; and Section 254 – Attempt to Defeat or Evade Payment of Taxes.

“We call on everyone to report all forms of illicit vape. They are hiding in villages. They are hiding in residential compounds. Once reported and verified, the BIR will raid these locations and file cases against these criminals. Illicit vape criminals have no place in our homes and neighborhoods. They are a threat to the peace and quiet of our residences,” Commissioner Lumagui added.

Commissioner Lumagui urges the public to report retailers and resellers of illicit vape products by providing their names and exact locations. Reports of illegal vape sales conducted online, including website links, are also welcomed. Information may be sent directly to commissioner@bir.gov.ph. 

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