Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla on Thursday vowed to pursue those behind the illegal tobacco trade to the fullest extent of the law, stressing that the government will not allow criminal syndicates to undermine legitimate businesses, deprive the state of revenues, and rob Filipino tobacco farmers of their livelihood.

Speaking at the 3rd International Tobacco Summit organized by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the National Tobacco Administration (NTA), Remulla reaffirmed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive under the government’s anti-illicit tobacco campaign:

“No compromise. No bribes. Prosecute them to the full extent of the law.”

The DILG chief said President Marcos has made the fight against illicit tobacco a priority because of its direct impact on thousands of farming families, particularly in Northern Luzon, whose livelihoods depend on a fair and lawful tobacco industry.

“Our President is an Ilocano. He sees his constituents whom he has been serving for the longest time are being affected. This anti-illicit tobacco [drive] is very close to his heart,” he said.

Remulla underscored that every shipment of illicit tobacco seized and every syndicate dismantled is ultimately a measure to protect farmers, safeguard legitimate enterprises, and ensure that lawful industries are not placed at a disadvantage by criminal operators.

He recalled one operation that began as a routine traffic stop but led authorities to uncover illegal tobacco products being transported in a vehicle. According to Remulla, those involved attempted to bribe law enforcement officers after the contraband was discovered.

“They tried to bribe my men for 5 million dollars. No deal. We are going after you,” he said.

The Secretary attributed the campaign’s gains to the integrity of law enforcement personnel and the government’s determination to dismantle the entire ecosystem that enables illegal trade to thrive.

“This campaign is successful for two reasons: the PNP is incorruptible and as illegal tobacco can germinate into something bigger, we might as well stop the ecosystem from the beginning.”

He emphasized that the government’s campaign is being carried out within the bounds of the law and with full respect for due process.

“We did not have to kill anyone.”

Remulla said the government will sustain its crackdown until illicit tobacco operations are dismantled and those responsible are held accountable.

“The DILG and the PNP are committed, 100 percent, to helping this industry. We will not protect anybody behind all of these illegal activities.”