Philippines Probe Agency Seizes 800 Smuggled Vape Products in Manila, Stores Face Multiple Charges

Quick Takeaways

• The NBI conducted simultaneous operations in two retail stores in Manila, seizing around 800 vape devices and e-liquids.
• The confiscated products were not registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and were deemed to have failed safety and quality assessments.
• The NBI said some of the vape devices could be modified to inhale cannabinoids and other dangerous substances, posing heightened risks to young users.
• Store owners face charges for violating the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act and the Consumer Act of the Philippines.
• One store employee has been detained, and the investigation is ongoing.

2Firsts, December 2, 2025 — According to GMA Integrated News, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) recently seized a batch of smuggled and unregistered vape devices and e-liquids worth around PHP 250,000 (approximately USD 4,250) from two stores in Manila.

The report said the operation followed earlier surveillance and test-buy activities conducted by the NBI at the two establishments. After securing evidence samples, agents carried out raid operations and confiscated roughly 800 units of vape devices and liquids.

Ross Jonathan Galicia, head of the NBI Dangerous Drugs Division, noted that some of the seized devices could be fitted with cannabinoids or other chemicals and illegal drugs, making such misuse difficult for parents or guardians to detect. He added that some parents may think their children are merely vaping, unaware they may already be exposed to or becoming dependent on illegal substances.

Galicia further stated that the confiscated products had not been registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), meaning they did not pass the agency’s required safety and quality assessment procedures.

According to the report, the owners of the two stores have not yet issued any public statement. The NBI said those responsible will face charges for violating the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act and the Consumer Act of the Philippines.

One employee involved in the case has been arrested and is currently under NBI custody. GMA Integrated News noted it is still attempting to reach both the detained employee and the store owners for comment.

Cover image: GMA Integrated News