MARCOS LEADS DESTRUCTION OF OVER P3.26B SMUGGLED VAPE PRODUCTS

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday April 7, 2025, led the destruction of 2,977,925 pieces of seized smuggled electronic cigarettes, vape parts, and accessories valued at P3.26 billion.

The event, held at the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in South Harbor, Manila, underscores the administration’s strong commitment in combatting illicit trade and protecting public health.

Joining the President was BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio, who emphasized the Bureau’s intensified operations against the illegal importation of vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products.

“These products not only violate customs laws but pose serious risks to consumer health. Today’s condemnation is a clear message to smugglers that the government is relentless in its pursuit of lawful trade,” said Rubio.

The condemnation was also witnessed by key officials, including Department of Finance (DOF) Secretary Ralph G. Recto, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Ma. Cristina Aldeguer-Roque, and attorney M. Marcus N. Valdez II, supervising head of the Office for the Special Mandate on Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products (OSMV).

The seized products were the result of 10 operations conducted across various areas in Metro Manila in 2024 led by the Manila International Container Port (MICP), Port of Manila (POM), and the BOC Intelligence Group, who played a crucial role in identifying and intercepting the illegal shipments.

The BOC’s success is anchored on a multi-pronged strategy that includes local and international collaboration, advanced intelligence gathering through its Risk Management and Cargo Targeting Systems, the legal enforcement of Letters of Authority under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), and stricter port control measures.

The initiative is also aligned with Republic Act  11900 or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act, which mandates the regulation and taxation of such products.

Under the President’s guidance, the BOC and other government agencies continue to prioritize actions that directly benefit Filipino citizens, including their health, safety, and the integrity of the economy.