Vape crackdown nets P45M haul in Baliwag

A total of P45 million worth of vape products was seized by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) at No. 1257 San Lucas St. and Topaz St., Carpa Road, Sabang, of this city on 10 July 2025.

According to the CIDG, the CIDG Northern District Field Unit, together with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), implemented a search warrant at the said area, which resulted in the arrest of two suspects and the confiscation of various unregistered vape products.

A report to CIDG Acting Director Police Brigadier General Romeo Macapaz stated that the suspects were identified as business partners "Rhizmel" and "Anne," allegedly engaged in the illegal sale and distribution of unregistered vape products without the required permits and authority from the DTI.

Seized during the operation were 140 boxes of various vaporized products (Spark Lighting, Elite 15000, Royal Purple, Oxva, Boss V00M-01, and Premium Boss Greek), 23 boxes of Spark Pods, 98 boxes of Spark Pod Juice, 104 boxes of Spark Pod Refills, several acknowledgment receipts and delivery forms, and one CCTV unit, with an estimated value of P45,000,000.

The suspects were charged before the National Prosecution Service with violation of Section 19 of Republic Act No. 11900 (Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation) for failure to register the products with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).

Macapaz cited that the State protects and promotes the people's right to health and instills health consciousness. The government regulates the importation, manufacture, sale, distribution, and use of vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products, their devices, and vape products to promote a healthy environment.