Authorities Confiscate P250,000 Worth of Illegal Vape Products in Manila

Authorities have seized approximately P250,000 worth of smuggled and unregistered vaping devices and e-liquids from two separate retail outlets in Manila. This action followed surveillance operations and test purchases carried out by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

Ross Jonathan Galicia, head of the NBI Dangerous Drugs Division, emphasized the potential dangers of the confiscated devices, stating, "These vape devices can be used to contain cannabinoids or other harmful chemicals and illicit drugs without detection, especially by parents who may only believe that their children are simply using vapes, unaware that they might be developing an addiction to illegal substances."

Further investigations revealed that the 800 confiscated products lack registration with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), indicating they failed to meet required safety and quality standards.

The proprietors of the two establishments have not yet responded to requests for comment. The NBI has confirmed that the individuals involved will face legal proceedings for violating the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act as well as the Consumer Act of the Philippines.

An employee taken into custody by the NBI is currently being questioned, with authorities continuing their investigation into the matter.