In line with its core mandate to secure the country’s borders against smuggling, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) remains resolute in its mission to protect the domestic market from illicit goods that compromise public health and the integrity of local industries—particularly through the continued crackdown on unauthorized vape products.

The BOC is carrying out condemnation activities involving approximately PhP3.26 billion worth of seized vape products. These items were either unfit for public use or lacked the necessary regulatory clearances, making them subject to destruction under customs laws.

Following the ceremonial condemnation held on April 7, 2025, the Bureau launched large-scale destruction operations at designated waste disposal facilities. These efforts underscore the BOC’s full compliance with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to intensify the fight against illicit trade. While the economic impact of smuggling is significant, the government places greater priority on safeguarding the health and safety of the Filipino people.

The destruction of the seized vape products is currently ongoing at RCU Waste Collection Services in Marilao, Bulacan, and Barba Waste Management and Services in Bocaue, Bulacan. The operations are jointly led by the Manila International Container Port (MICP) and the Port of Manila (POM), with oversight from the Auction and Cargo Disposal Division (ACDD), Enforcement and Security Service (ESS), and Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) personnel from each port. Security support is provided by augmentation teams from the Philippine Army and the Philippine Coast Guard.

The BOC has already destroyed over 1 million pieces of seized vape products since the ceremonial condemnation led by the President on April 7, 2025.

These activities are conducted pursuant to Section 1146 of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), which authorizes the disposition of goods under customs custody, including the destruction of prohibited and unsafe items. The condemnation of vape products also aligns with the implementation of Republic Act No. 11900, which governs the regulation and taxation of vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products.

Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio emphasized: “We will not waver in our responsibility to defend the nation against the threats of smuggling. The sustained condemnation of unauthorized vape products exemplifies our determined pursuit of a safer, regulated marketplace – anchored on the principles of integrity, health protection, and good governance.”