Journalists in Central Luzon have called on local government units (LGUs) enforcing strict anti-smoking policies to also take decisive action against the rampant illicit tobacco trade in their areas. The appeal was made during the National Press Club’s (NPC) regional media workshop, “Media in Time of Fakes” held in Clark, Pampanga.
In a manifesto issued during the event, participants emphasized the need for LGUs, law enforcement, and private stakeholders to combat illegal tobacco networks effectively and transparently.
“We urge LGUs with strict anti-tobacco policies to act decisively against illicit tobacco networks, which undermine public health efforts and drain government resources,” the manifesto read.
Rising Illicit Tobacco Trade in Central Luzon
Data from the Philippine Tobacco Institute (PTI) and the National Tobacco Administration (NTA) highlighted a troubling trend: Bataan, known for its stringent anti-smoking laws, has the highest incidence of illicit trade in Luzon at 58%. This has contributed to North and Central Luzon holding the second-highest illicit trade rate in the country at 12.8%, trailing only Mindanao at 51%.
The workshop attendees, representing print, radio, and digital media from provinces including Nueva Ecija, Bataan, Pampanga, and Bulacan, stressed the need for a coordinated approach between LGUs and law enforcement to tackle the issue comprehensively.
Smuggling Routes and Economic Impact
According to industry data, most illegal cigarettes come from Indonesia and Malaysia, entering the country via sea routes in Zamboanga, General Santos, Davao, and Palawan before being distributed inland. Popular illicit brands in Luzon include Modern, RGD, Carnival, New Two Moon, and H&P Red.
This smuggling epidemic has significantly impacted government revenues, with tobacco tax collections dropping from ₱176 billion in 2021 to ₱135 billion in 2023. Annual losses from illicit trade are estimated between ₱60 billion and ₱100 billion, according to Congress and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).
Media’s Role in Accountability
The media workshop participants pledged to intensify investigative reporting on illicit tobacco activities. This includes tracking cases beyond initial raids, documenting judicial outcomes, and highlighting successful prosecutions to ensure public accountability and awareness.
The NPC event marked the second in a series of regional workshops addressing issues of misinformation and illicit trade, following its inaugural session in Cagayan de Oro.
By addressing both anti-smoking policies and illicit trade, participants stressed that a holistic approach is crucial to curb the economic and social consequences of the illegal tobacco industry.
