The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has strongly refuted recent misleading claims made by vape companies FLARE and SHFT on social media.
According to a DTI news release, FLARE falsely asserted full compliance with government regulations, while SHFT shared unauthorized photos of DTI personnel, raising serious concerns over ethical practices and adherence to consumer protection laws.
Citing Republic Act No. 7394, or The Consumer Act of the Philippines, the DTI emphasized that false, deceptive, or misleading advertisements are prohibited. Also, it said, under Department Administrative Order No. 2 (2007), disseminating false information or concealing material facts is strictly forbidden.
The DTI clarified that only the following brands currently hold valid Philippine Standard (PS) Licenses, authorizing their sale in the local market:
- DON BARS
- KLIQ
- ONE BAR
- PHANTOM VAPE
- RELX
- TOMORO
- TRUEZ
- VAGEND
- X-VAPE
The Department thus urged vape businesses to secure and maintain their PS Licenses to ensure products meet stringent safety and quality standards before distribution. Non-compliance could lead to penalties or suspension of trading operations.
The Office for the Special Mandate on Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products, their Devices, and Novel Tobacco Products (OSMV) has called on consumers to report errant retailers or suspicious practices.
Concerns can be raised through the DTI Consumer Care Hotline at 1-384 or via email at consumercare@dti.gov.ph. Consumers may also contact osmv@dti.gov.ph or visit DTI’s OSMV webpage for more information on vape-related policies.
The DTI, through the OSMV, reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Filipino consumers while ensuring fair trade practices in the growing vape industry.
