Philippines DTI: Unregulated E-cigarette Products Flood Market, Urges Legal Purchases

According to a recent report by Palawan News, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in Palawan province, Philippines, has warned local residents to be cautious when purchasing e-cigarette products that do not have the approval stamp from the Department of the Interior and Local Government. These products are still being sold online and in local stores. The DTI emphasizes that October is Consumer Welfare Month, and understanding the laws related to products is an important part of protecting consumer rights.

During the "Kapihan sa PIA" press conference, Hazel Salvador, the DTI provincial director of Palawan, announced that the regional office's Consumer Protection and Advocacy Bureau will conduct an information campaign on Republic Act 11900 (2022 E-cigarette and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act) starting on October 16. She mentioned that while local DTI offices have already inspected e-cigarette shops in Puerto Princesa City, a comprehensive inventory of each shop has not been conducted yet.

Salvador pointed out that, despite e-cigarettes using flavored e-liquids and chemicals to create vapor, they still contain nicotine and are therefore subject to the same regulations as traditional cigarettes. She emphasized, "Just like with the sale of cigarettes, buyers must be at least 18 years old and stores cannot be located near schools, churches, or crowded areas.

She also stated that no offenders have been found or arrested at the moment, but if any are discovered, especially cases of minors purchasing e-cigarettes, please report them to the authorities. Salvador mentioned that complaints have been received from Busuanga and Coron alleging the sale of e-cigarette products near schools. Authorities have taken immediate action and will refer the issue of penalties and confiscation of products to the regional DTI office.

According to reports, on October 3rd, the DTI revised the implementing rules of Republic Act 11900, strengthening the DTI's special authorization function for new tobacco products such as e-cigarettes and their devices, requiring sellers to register and certify their products. Earlier this year, the DTI confiscated non-compliant products for lacking health warnings on packaging and marketing towards minors. Additionally, the DTI imposed further penalties on four brands - Relx, Flare, Team X, and Funky Monkey. These brands and their Philippine standard permits are currently under review.