Illicit vape items worth P3.26 billion go up in smoke

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has ramped up its campaign against smuggling with the destruction of P3.26 billion worth of illicit vape products, signaling a strong government stance against the proliferation of unauthorized goods in the market.

The sweeping condemnation operation began on April 7, following President Marcos’ directive to crack down on unregulated and unsafe vape items. The illicit products were destroyed at waste management facilities in Marilao and Bocaue, Bulacan.

Spearheaded by the Manila International Container Port and the Port of Manila, the initiative aims to protect public health and ensure regulatory compliance across the vape industry.

“Our resolve to stop smuggling remains firm. Destroying these illicit vapes shows our dedication to a safer, regulated market built on health, integrity and governance,” BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said.

Since the ceremonial kickoff led by the President, the BOC has disposed of more than one million vape products that lacked necessary permits or failed to meet health standards.

The destruction operations were conducted at RCU Waste Collection Services in Marilao and Barba Waste Management in Bocaue, under the supervision of the BOC’s Auction and Cargo Disposal Division, Enforcement and Security Service as well as Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service. Security was bolstered by the Philippine Army and Philippine Coast Guard.

The crackdown aligns with Republic Act 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, and Republic Act 11900, which regulates the sale and distribution of vape products in the Philippines.