Crackdown yields P1.4B in illegal vape products
A joint operation by the DTI and BOC seized P1.4 billion worth of illegal vape products in Navotas City.Summary
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) confiscated P1.4 billion worth of illegal vaporized nicotine products during a joint operation at a warehouse in Navotas City. Over 3.2 million vape devices and pods, along with promotional materials from previously suspended brands, were seized. The products were illegally imported, misdeclared, and lacked the necessary Philippine Standard Licenses and Import Commodity Clearance, violating RA 11900 and the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act. Authorities are pursuing forfeiture and condemnation proceedings to remove the products from circulation and prosecute those responsible. This crackdown follows President Marcos Jr.’s directive to tighten border controls, emphasizing that illegal vape products pose a threat to public health due to bypassed safety checks. The DTI warns of significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment, for establishments violating regulations related to vape products.
(Source：The Manila Times)
