The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has conducted immersive training programs in northern Luzon and Muslim Mindanao to ensure awareness of the vape law, technical regulations, and fair-trade practices. The DTI has been actively implementing the vape law, Republic Act 11900, through various programs and activities with its regional offices, non-governmental organizations, and businesses.
DTI Secretary Fred Pascual emphasized the commitment to consumer welfare and fair trade through stringent enforcement and comprehensive trainings. The training sessions were conducted in coordination with the Trade Regulation and Consumer Protection Division (TRCP) of the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Tourism (MTIT) and involved participants from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and DTI Region 2.
Joint enforcement operations targeting vape stores and retail outlets were also conducted in Makati and Taguig by the DTI-Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau (FTEB). Training sessions on enforcement and sales promotion were held last month in collaboration with FTEB.
The DTI continues to host regional monitoring and enforcement activities to ensure compliance with fair trade regulations. Agaton Uvero, head of DTI’s Fair Trade Group, stressed the importance of equipping enforcement teams with the necessary skills and knowledge.
Furthermore, the DTI has partnered with agencies like the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) to crack down on illicit vape sales. The collaboration with online platforms such as Lazada, TikTok, and Shopee aims to combat the proliferation of illegal vape products in the market.
PDEA officers presented trends in addictive substances, including the infusion of prohibited substances like psilocybin and marijuana into vape products. The DTI has also engaged with other government agencies and private sectors to address the issue.
The DTI’s efforts to enforce the vape law are part of a nationwide approach to ensure consumer welfare and fair trade practices. Collaborations with various agencies aim to strengthen enforcement capabilities and combat the spread of illegal vape products in the market.
