The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) of the Philippines has released a draft proposing to further regulate the advertising and promotion of vapes and new tobacco products through a compulsory licensing system.
Key Points Summary
- All vape and new tobacco product advertisements and promotions would require prior approval.
- Advertising Permits (AP) and Sales Promotion Permits (SPP) must be applied for separately, at least 30 days in advance.
- Physical stores must prove they are at least 100 meters away from schools and other youth-focused locations.
- Online platforms must implement age-verification mechanisms for users to view restricted content.
- Health officials continued to oppose claims that vapes are “safer” than traditional cigarettes.
DTI Opens Public Consultation on Draft Marketing Rules
December 8, 2025. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) of the Philippines issued a public notice on social media inviting feedback from the public and industry stakeholders on a draft regulation governing vape marketing.
Mandatory Advertising and Promotion Permits Introduced
Under the proposed Department Administrative Order (DAO) prepared by the Special Office for Aerosol and New Tobacco Products (OSMV), all advertising and promotional materials for vapes, heated tobacco, and related devices would be required to obtain an Advertising Permit (AP) or Sales Promotion Permit (SPP) before publication.
Advance Filing and Documentation Requirements Detailed
Applicants would need to submit applications at least 30 days before release and provide supporting documents. Including business registrations, licenses, sample advertisements, and product lists.
Location Restrictions for Physical Retailers
Brick-and-mortar sellers would be required to provide government certification proving their stores are located at least 100 meters away from schools, playgrounds and other places frequently visited by minors.
Age Verification Rules for Online Platforms
The draft requires online platforms to implement age-verification mechanisms, requiring users to confirm they are aged 18 or above before accessing vape-related content, with stricter controls on ads that directly encourage purchases.
Strengthening Enforcement of the Vape Law
These measures are intended to strengthen enforcement of Republic Law No. 11900 (Vape Law) and tighten oversight of the vaping industry.
Health Minister Reiterates Opposition to “Safer” Claims
Health Minister Ted Herbosa reiterated his opposition to marketing claims that vapes are a “safer alternative” and renewed calls for a nationwide ban on vape sales.
Follow us to get more updates: @zumo.official
