DTI pressed to act on complaints filed vs ZYN, IQOS
Advocacy groups urge the DTI to enforce regulations against ZYN and IQOS for violating the Vape Regulation Act.Summary
Several anti-smoking advocates, including the Child Rights Network, Health Justice Philippines, Parents Against Vape, Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) Philippines, and the Philippine Smoke-Free Movement (PSFM), have urged the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to take action against tobacco companies ZYN and IQOS Philippines. The groups allege that these companies have violated Republic Act 11900, or the Vape Regulation Act of 2022. Specific complaints include ZYN and IQOS having promotional presence during the Sinulog Festival in Cebu City, which is prohibited under Section 14(a) of the law. Additionally, Parents Against Vape filed a complaint regarding IQOS Philippines' collaboration with local artist Isabel Santos, which violates Section 12(c) that prohibits celebrity endorsements of vape products. Furthermore, ASH Philippines reported that ZYN pouches are unregistered with the DTI, contravening Section 19 of the Vape Regulation Act. The advocates argue that these violations demonstrate a continuous pattern of non-compliance by the tobacco industry and emphasize the need for immediate regulatory action to protect public health and children's rights.
(Source：SunStar Publishing Inc.)
