Philippines Seizes $70,000 Worth of Illegal E-Cigarettes Involving Black Elite Products

Jul.04
Philippines Seizes $70,000 Worth of Illegal E-Cigarettes Involving Black Elite Products
The Philippine National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) seized unregistered e-cigarette products worth PHP 3.9 million (around $70,000) in Cavite and arrested two suspects. The products were found to be in violation of multiple provisions of the country’s Vape Regulation Law (RA 11900).

Key Points:

 

·Law enforcement operation: Seizure of unregistered e-cigarette products worth 3.9 million pesos (approximately $70,000). Arrest of two suspects. 

 

·Legal basis: Suspects are accused of violating RA 11900 and products were not certified and registered by DTI-SANTP. 

 

 


【2Firsts news flash】According to a report from the Daily Tribune on July 4, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) announced the arrest of two suspects in Cavite on July 3 for allegedly selling and distributing unregistered e-cigarette products worth approximately 3.9 million pesos (approximately $70,000).

 

Philippines Seizes $70,000 Worth of Illegal E-Cigarettes Involving Black Elite Products
Image source: National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). The product depicted is Black.

 

According to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) showcased products in a press conference, the confiscated illegal e-cigarette products this time included at least the Black Elite 12000 series. In September 2024, the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry had suspended the sales of five e-cigarette brands, including Black Elite, for not complying with the relevant regulations in Republic Act 11900.

 

Director of the National Bureau of Investigation, Jaime B. Santiago, confirmed that the suspects are Ace dela Cruz Garcia and Reginald Ventura Llanto. They were arrested for violating sections 4(d), 12(j), and 18 of Republic Act No. 11900, also known as the "Nicotine Vaporization and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act."

 

Philippines Seizes $70,000 Worth of Illegal E-Cigarettes Involving Black Elite Products
Image source: Manila Standard

 

The National Investigation Bureau's office in the Northern district of Krabi has received information regarding the alleged sale and distribution of e-cigarette products that do not meet the registration requirements of RA 11900.

 

The Ministry of Trade and Industry's Office of Special Authorization for Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products has confirmed that the e-cigarette products seized are unregulated and non-compliant.

 

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn


Notice

1.  This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2.  The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3.  This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4.  Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

 

Copyright

 

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

 

AI Assistance Disclaimer

 

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

Russian NGO Calls for Halt of 2025 E-cigarette Expo, Citing Illegal Promotion of Nicotine Products
Russian NGO Calls for Halt of 2025 E-cigarette Expo, Citing Illegal Promotion of Nicotine Products
The Russian social movement organization "Сорок Сороков" has filed complaints with the prosecutors' offices in Moscow and Novosibirsk, demanding the ban of the 2025 E-cigarette Expo (Vape Club Show). The complainants argue that the event constitutes illegal promotion of nicotine products and sets a bad example for young people.
May.07 by 2FIRSTS.ai
2Firsts In-Depth | From Demographics to Distribution: Why Pakistan May Be Asia’s Next Vape Battleground
2Firsts In-Depth | From Demographics to Distribution: Why Pakistan May Be Asia’s Next Vape Battleground
Despite renewed conflict and airspace closures, Pakistan’s e-cigarette market is quietly expanding. As a "gray market" shaped by high taxes, weak regulation, and trade hurdles, it poses both challenges and opportunities. Chinese brands are entering cautiously, as the vaping business becomes a real test of resilience in a complex and uncertain environment.
May.14
Eco-Friendly Vape Brand No Saint Launches in 500 UK Stores with Sustainable Products and Age Verification
Eco-Friendly Vape Brand No Saint Launches in 500 UK Stores with Sustainable Products and Age Verification
The eco-friendly vape brand No Saint has launched in the UK, entering 500 retail stores. The products emphasize material safety and age restrictions, with flavors designed for a more mature palate. The founder has raised $50 million for the brand.
May.06 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Taking Flight: How Kardinal Builds a Global Vape Brand from Southeast Asia
Taking Flight: How Kardinal Builds a Global Vape Brand from Southeast Asia
Founded in Malaysia, Kardinal quickly rose to global prominence with its user-focused design and high-quality products. Flagship devices like Quik 6000 and Quikpro have won international acclaim. The brand is now expanding into Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America, steadily building its global footprint.
Jun.27
Mylor Bio Launches NaSweet-C and NaSweet-X Sweeteners for Vaping Devices
Mylor Bio Launches NaSweet-C and NaSweet-X Sweeteners for Vaping Devices
At Vaper Expo May 2025, Mylor Bio Co., Ltd. is showcasing the NaSweet series of professional atomized sweetener solutions, which consists of two innovative products, NaSweet-C, designed for ceramic coil devices, and NaSweet-X, which is compatible with cotton coil devices.
May.12
Zimbabwe's 2025 Tobacco Sales Reach 280 Million kg, Near 300 Million Target
Zimbabwe's 2025 Tobacco Sales Reach 280 Million kg, Near 300 Million Target
Zimbabwe has sold over 280 million kg of tobacco in the 2025 season, 94% of its 300 million kg target, earning $944 million. TIMB says 108,000 farmers took part, up 4.6% from last year. The Agriculture Ministry credits good weather, more smallholders, better practices, and contract farming. The average price is $3.37/kg, slightly down from 2024 but still profitable.
Jun.17 by 2FIRSTS.ai