Vape brands that distribute free devices and cartridges in nightclubs and bars and target young people violate Philippine regulations. Philippine health organization has warned, sparking controversy over the compliance of their marketing practices.
Key points:
- Promotion model controversy: Vape brands attract young users in the form of free delivery at nightclubs in Manila, Philippines, raising questions about compliance.
- Clear target groups: Health organizations believe that such “trial strategies” clearly target vulnerable young people.
- Why it may be illegal: Philippine Act No. 11900 specifically prohibits marketing methods that attract minors, including free samples and promotional events.
- Expert opinion: The head of ImagineLaw has criticized the strategy as “predatory market behavior”, highlighting its potential addiction risks and health implications.
E-cigarette brands hand out free e-cigarettes at nightclubs, urge regulators to investigate quickly
According to Gmanetwork reported on April 15, the Philippine public health advocacy organization expressed strong concerns about the “free trial” promotion of vape brands in nightclubs and bars, believing that the strategy may be suspected of violating current national regulations, and the target group is suspected to be concentrated in young consumers.
Health experts and advocates say several vape brand representatives have been spotted at hot spots such as bars in Metro Manila, handing out free vape devices and flavored cartridges to on-site customers to try that night.
Sophia Monica San Luis, executive director of ImagineLaw, said,
- “This is not only irresponsible marketing, it is predatory behavior. “Brands know exactly who they’re targeting — young people who are out having fun, easily influenced by their peers, and have limited awareness of health risks.”
Republic Act No. 11900 (Regulation of Vaped Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Act), passed in 2022, specifically prohibits the marketing of such products to minors and restricts all promotional activities that may appeal to youth, including the distribution of free samples, the use of youth design elements, participation in various event sponsorships, and collaboration with public figures.
San Luis further pointed out that such conduct constitutes a clear violation of the law.
The Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance (SEATCA) also expressed concern about the “bar marketing” trend, noting that flavored vapes, which often carry confectionery or fruit aromas, are part of a broader strategy to attract first-time users.
Public health organizations are now urging the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Health (DOH) to investigate and crack down on these illegal promotions.
