Step up prosecution, conviction of personalities behind illicit tobacco trade--Valeriano
Philippine Congressman Rolando Valeriano is calling for stricter prosecution and conviction of individuals involved in the illicit tobacco trade. He argues that current efforts focus too heavily on confiscation rather than legal accountability.
Why it matters
Addressing the illicit tobacco trade is critical for government revenue collection and public health regulation.
Manila Bulletin - Step up prosecution, conviction of personalities behind illicit tobacco trade--Valeriano
Step up prosecution, conviction of personalities behind illicit tobacco trade--Valeriano
Rep. Rolando Valeriano urges law enforcement to prioritize prosecutions and convictions over mere confiscation of illicit tobacco products.
He warns that without convictions, illicit trade remains unchecked, citing billions in lost government revenues and widespread illegal tobacco sales.
Officials at the summit acknowledged weak case build-up, with most complaints lacking sufficient evidence, and stressed dismantling syndicates through stronger coordination and legal reforms.
A cigarette, Manila 2nd district Rep. Rolando Valeriano (Unsplash, Contributed photo)
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