Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 11900)
The Act is known as the "Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act."
The State aims to protect and promote the right to health, instill health consciousness, regulate novel consumer products using international standards, prevent sale to minors, illicit trade, promote a healthy environment, and reduce harm caused by smoking.
They refer to both Heated Tobacco Products and Vapor Products which generate a nicotine-containing or non-nicotine-containing aerosol without combustion.
They must bear highly visible, full-color graphic health warnings on 50% of front and back principal display surfaces and textual warnings. The packaging should not obscure these warnings, and comply with BIR marking requirements.
The minimum allowable age is eighteen (18) years old.
Retailers must verify buyers' age through valid government-issued ID showing photo and birthdate and ensure no sales to persons below 18 years old.
Yes, but only by registered sellers with DTI or SEC, with measures to restrict access to persons below 18, compliance with health warnings, BIR requirements, and age verification on delivery.
Advertisements cannot target minors, use appealing youth characters, feature celebrities, have false claims, or contain medicinal or therapeutic claims unless FDA-approved. Promotions must also exclude persons below 18 years old.
Use is prohibited in all indoor public places except Designated Vaping Areas (DVAs) or during product demonstrations at point-of-sale establishments, including educational centers, hospitals, government offices, public conveyances, and places with fire hazards.
Penalties vary from fines ranging from P5,000 to P5,000,000 and imprisonment up to six years depending on the offense. Repeated violations lead to increased fines and possible revocation of business licenses.