It is reported that the reason why the DTI issued the NOV and SCO was that the retailer failed to verify the age of the buyer and the e-cigarette product packaging, labelling, display or flavor description sold was inappropriately attractive to minors.
During this enforcement operation, the DTI confiscated a total of 18,000 e-cigarette products worth 5.5 million Philippine pesos (US$97,845). Physical stores and online stores that receive SCO and NOV can submit a written explanation within 48 hours
Previously, 11 former senior officials from the Philippines' health and education departments came out against e-cigarette products. They said in a joint statement: "E-cigarettes are ineffective in promoting smoking cessation for all people and are creating a new generation of nicotine addicts among Filipino teenagers." "
