Civic group CitizenWatch Philippines is calling on the government to dismantle the illegal cigarette trade, saying it drains health funds and endangers consumers.
Lead convenor Orlando Oxales described illegal tobacco as “theft in its most dangerous form” that robs the nation of revenues meant for healthcare.
Recent data shows 57% of Filipinos know illegal cigarettes are sold locally, with many buying them due to lower prices, undermining the government’s sin tax strategy.
The illicit trade has caused excise revenues to drop from ₱176 billion in 2021 to ₱134 billion in 2024, harming health programs.
CitizenWatch urged stronger enforcement, prosecutions, and digital tracking to stop the illegal supply chain and recover lost funds.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 28, 2025
URGENT CALL TO END ILLEGAL CIGARETTES DRAINING HEALTH CARE RESOURCES
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