BoC intensifies fight vs illicit vapes

The Bureau of Customs (BoC) is destroying approximately P3.26 billion worth of confiscated vaping products as part of its ongoing efforts to combat smuggling and protect public health.

In a statement on Tuesday, the BoC said that agency regulations permit the destruction of goods deemed unsuitable for public use or lacking necessary regulatory clearances. The BoC began large-scale destruction operations at designated waste disposal facilities following a ceremonial condemnation on 7 April 2025.

It added that its actions align with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify the campaign against illegal trade. The government is prioritizing the health and safety of Filipino citizens over the significant economic impact of smuggling, the agency stated.

The confiscated vape products are being destroyed at Barba Waste Management and Services in Bocaue, Bulacan, and RCU Waste Collection Services in Marilao, Bulacan. The operations are jointly supervised by personnel from the Auction and Cargo Disposal Division, Enforcement and Security Service and Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service of the Manila International Container Port and the Port of Manila.

Security support is being provided by augmentation forces from the Philippine Army and Philippine Coast Guard.

The BoC reported that over one million units of confiscated e-cigarettes have been destroyed since the president’s ceremonial condemnation on 7 April 2025.

These actions are conducted in accordance with Section 1146 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, also known as Republic Act 10863, which allows for the destruction of dangerous and prohibited goods and the disposal of goods in customs custody.

The condemnation of vape products also aligns with Republic Act 11900, which regulates and taxes vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products.