By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., along with other government officials, led the condemnation of P3.26 billion worth of electronic vapes, vape parts and accessories seized by the Bureau of Customs (BOC).
These vape products fell into hands of authorities following the conduct of 10 seizure operations led by the Port of Manila (POM), Manila International Container Port (MICP), and the Intelligence Group (IG) in 2024.
Over 2.9 million pieces of such vaporized nicotine paraphernalia were destroyed by the BOC in South Harbor, Manila Monday, April 7, serving as a stern warning to the public against the repercussions of engaging in illegal smuggling.
The effort is in accordance with Republic Act No. 11900 or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act, which mandates strict adherence to regulations concerning the importation, distribution, and taxation of vaporized nicotine, non-nicotine, and tobacco products.
Said legislation also acts as a safeguard in ensuring that only safe and compliant products are qualified for distribution, sale and purchase by Filipino consumers.
“Patuloy nating gagawin ito, and I just wanted to highlight the efforts and the dangers that – the efforts that we are doing and the dangers that accompany these smuggled vapes far and beyond the loss and revenue to the government. More important to us are the health issues that these smuggled vapes are raised,” President Marcos, Jr. said in his speech.
The activity was also witnessed by key officials including Department of Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, DTI Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque, Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Large Taxpayers Service Representative Atty. Peter Dator, BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio, OSMV Supervising Head Atty. M. Marcus N. Valdez II, and representatives from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The destruction of seized and forfeited vape products reflect the Chief Executive’s firm stance against smuggled goods that may endanger the public and undermine their trust in government institutions.
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