On behalf of Finance Secretary Frederick D. Go, Revenue Operations Group (ROG) Undersecretary Rolando T. Ligon, Jr. called for a united front and strengthened regional cooperation against the illicit tobacco trade during the recent 3rd International Tobacco Summit.
In his keynote address, Undersecretary Ligon emphasized that effectively tackling illegal tobacco smuggling and distribution requires closing critical gaps in three core areas: trust, enforcement, and predictability.
“Addressing the illicit tobacco trade requires clear regulations, fair implementation, and consistent enforcement,” Ligon stated. “These foundational measures are vital to strengthening business confidence and encouraging long-term compliance across the industry.”
The summit, led jointly by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the National Tobacco Administration (NTA), served as a premier platform bringing together government leaders, industry stakeholders, and international partners. The event underscored the necessity of a unified, “whole-of-government” approach to dismantle illicit trade networks through sustained enforcement and cross-border collaboration.
By aligning regulatory frameworks and fostering transparent communication between the public and private sectors, the Department of Finance (DOF) aims to secure national revenues, protect local agricultural interests, and ensure a fair, predictable playing field for legitimate businesses.
