Under the Philippines’ new vape law, manufacturers have three months to notify the DTI before releasing their vaporized products on the market. Credit: http://www.vaping360.com, Creative Commons
The Philippines Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is drafting Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) for the Vaporized Nicotine Products Regulation Act, which lapsed into law on July. Under the new law, DTI is to come up with the IRR three months from the law coming into effect.
According to DTI undersecretary for consumer protection group, Ruth Castelo, DTI will take the lead when it comes to testing the new tobacco alternative products. Castelo added that DTI testing equipment have been ready since last year. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will take the lead or approve certificates when it comes to chemicals and product health claims.
Manufacturers have three months to notify the DTI in accordance with the law before releasing vaporized nicotine products on the market. For products that are already on the market, DTI gives manufacturers four months to register their products and submit proof of their adherence to product standards and assessment criteria.
Additionally, the law set forth punishments for non-compliance, including fines and the cancellation of business licenses, for manufacturers, importers, distributors, and sellers. Vaporized nicotine products found in the market for sale of distribution will be subject to confiscation.
In its position paper during the deliberation of the legislation, DTI backed the bill and emphasized that regulation over the alternative tobacco products is preferable to a complete ban. DTI also assuaged concerns over the most contentious age problem as the law lets 18-year-olds buy, sell, and use vape products.
The Department of Health was assured of its role in the drafting of the IRR and control of the products. Even the Department of Health was convinced by DTI of its significance in the creation of the IRR and the management of the non-tobacco goods. DTI also defended the measure's economic component.