By Kenneth Marcos 
As the next tobacco trading season draws near, buyers and farmers alike are preparing for months that will shape incomes across tobacco-growing areas. Clear rules and fair practices matter most during this period, when pricing, grading, and payments can affect the livelihood of thousands of Filipino families.
Ahead of the 2026 trading season, the National Tobacco Administration (NTA) held a virtual orientation seminar to update local tobacco buyers on the 2018 Revised Trading Rules and Regulations governing the trade of locally grown leaf tobacco. The activity aimed to strengthen compliance, reduce disputes, and promote transparency in buying stations across the country.
The seminar was organized by the NTA Regulation Department and led by Atty. Rohbert A. Ambros. It brought together licensed tobacco buyers and private sector partners involved in the tobacco trade. The discussion focused on the responsibilities of buyers and the standards they must follow to ensure fair treatment of farmers.
In his opening remarks, NTA Deputy Administrator for Operations Nestor C. Casela stressed the importance of full awareness of the trading rules. He said many conflicts during the trading season arise from misunderstandings over grading, weighing, and pricing of tobacco leaves. Proper knowledge of the rules, he added, can help prevent disputes and protect both buyers and farmers.
Atty. Ambros presented the legal basis and key provisions of the 2018 Revised Trading Rules and Regulations. He reminded participants that buyers must submit complete application requirements on or before February 16, 2026, to be allowed to operate during the trading season. Applications submitted late or with missing documents may face delays or disapproval.
He also highlighted the core principles of the revised rules, known as the Five Ps. These include Permit or License, Proper grading, Proper weighing, Prompt payment, and Proper documentation. According to NTA officials, these principles serve as the foundation of fair and orderly tobacco trading.
Under the revised rules, buyers are required to secure valid licenses, follow standard grading procedures, use calibrated weighing scales, pay farmers on time, and keep accurate records of all transactions. Clear procedures are also in place for reporting and addressing violations.
Technical discussions followed, led by Supervising Tobacco Production Regulation Officer Primitivo M. Abalos Jr. He explained licensing requirements in detail and discussed proper documentation, including the reporting of Purchase Invoice Vouchers and Certificates of Purchase. He also outlined monitoring systems implemented by the NTA in coordination with the Governance Commission for GOCCs to ensure compliance.
Senior Tobacco Production Regulation Officer Jerymy Ann E. Feria discussed common violations observed in past trading seasons and the corresponding penalties under the revised rules. These include operating without a valid license, improper grading or weighing, delayed payments, and failure to submit required reports.
NTA Administrator and Chief Executive Officer Belinda Sanchez said the orientation marks the approaching start of the tobacco trading season. She reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting all stakeholders, especially tobacco farmers who depend on fair prices and timely payments.
Sanchez emphasized that the Trading Rules and Regulations are not only tools for enforcement but also safeguards to maintain the integrity and stability of the tobacco industry. She said the NTA continues to balance strict implementation of the rules with guidance and collaboration to help stakeholders comply.
The seminar ended with a call for buyers, regulators, and industry partners to work together in upholding the law. With proper coordination and respect for the rules, the NTA said the 2026 tobacco trading season can be fairer, more transparent, and more responsive to the needs of Filipino tobacco farmers.
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