The health advocacy group Safevape PH has urged vape suppliers and industry stakeholders to adhere strictly to government regulations regarding product registration and tax compliance.
This call comes in the wake of the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Office for the Special Mandate on Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products (OSMV) approving the accreditation of Guandong Boopower Industry Co. Ltd. (GBPI) and its local representative, One Tech Ventures OPC.
In a statement, GBPI expressed its commitment to quality, announcing, “we have obtained our PS License Certificate, ensuring our products meet the highest quality and safety standards.”
“This certification represents our commitment to excellence and delivering only the best for our customers. Trust in our products, trust in our brand,” the company added.
Safevape PH noted that GBPI's accreditation contradicts claims from some industry players that the licensing process is overly burdensome, which has led to illegal operations.
The group also responded to ongoing complaints from manufacturers, distributors, and importers who have cited challenges in meeting the regulatory demands, particularly in securing the Philippine Standard (PS) Quality and Safety Mark and the Import Commodity Clearance Sticker from the DTI.
According to Republic Act No. 11900, known as the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act, all manufacturers and importers are mandated to register their products and obtain operational licenses, alongside adhering to packaging regulations and fulfilling tax obligations.
An 18-month transition period was previously granted to facilitate compliance with these regulations.
“GBPI’s case was clear example that securing licensed certificate from OSMV is not impossible as some industry players want the public to believe,” Safevape PH said.
The group emphasized the importance of compliance for the health and safety of the public and called for transparency and accountability within the industry.
They also support educational campaigns aimed at informing the public about the risks and benefits of vaping.
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is intensifying efforts against illegal vape retailing.
BIR Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. noted that despite repeated warnings, illegal dealers persist in their activities, leading to regular raids and product seizures.