VAPE manufacturer RELX said it is collaborating with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to tighten monitoring efforts on the sale of vape products in the Philippines.
“We will work closely with the DTI to identify and address any instances of non-compliance by vape product sellers,” RELX International External Affairs Head Patrick C. Drilon said in a statement on Tuesday.
Mr. Drilon said this after Trade Secretary Alfredo E. Pascual ordered the strict monitoring of sellers of vape products to ensure that the restrictions under Republic Act No. 11900, or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act, are being observed.
The law sets guidelines and restrictions on the sale and distribution of vape products in the Philippines.
“RELX actively cooperates with government authorities to ensure the effective implementation of RA 11900. RELX fully supports government authorities in their efforts to enforce selling regulations and take necessary actions against any violations,” Mr. Drilon said.
Previously, the DTI announced that it had confiscated 13,784 vape products worth P4.25 million from noncompliant vape stores, while it issued notices of violation to 72 firms.
It said most of the violations were related to rules on product packaging requirements; sale of vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products, their devices, or novel tobacco products; restrictions on product communication, advertisements, and sponsorships; and prohibition on the use of nicotine and non-nicotine products in public places.
Mr. Drilon said RELX supports efforts to stop the illicit trade of vapor products, adding that consumer safety is a “top priority” of the company.
“RA 11900 plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe sale of vape products in the country,” Mr. Drilon said.
“We laud and support the efforts of the DTI in monitoring and ensuring that all sellers of vape products comply with the stipulated rules and regulations,” he added. — Revin Mikhael D. Ochave
