The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has expressed readiness in implementing the Vaporized Nicotine and Non -Nicotine Products Regulation Act — also known as the Vape Regulation Bill — after lapsing into law recently.
According to DTI Undersecretary Ruth Castelo, they are now in coordination with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to oversee the crafting of the law’s Implementing Rules and Regulation (IRR).
“The law particularly states that the DTI will spearhead its implementation. But we are only focusing on the devices because we have the capability to test those devices. In fact, last year or 2021, testing for the vape devices was ready,” Castelo said.
The law — which lapsed last 25 July without the signature of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and was earlier ratified by the Senate and Congress — regulates the importation, manufacture, sale, packaging, distribution, use and communication of vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products, as well as novel tobacco products.
However, Castelo clarified that FDA will be in charge with regards to standards on health issues, leading to the evaluation and certification.
“For now, we’re already preparing the draft for the IRR of this. Maybe anytime soon, in a couple of days, we will start the consultation with the FDA first. Then if the DTI and FDA agreed to it, then we will release it for public consultation,” Castelo said.
Under the new law, the DTI is tasked to consult with the FDA in setting technical standards for the safety, consistency and quality of vape products and it also states that the Trade department is given authority to regulate the vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products and their devices and novel tobacco products made from tobacco leaves or have nicotine in tobacco.
On the other hand, the Department of Health is mandated to prescribe guidelines on the implementation of smoking and vaping restriction awareness campaigns.
The law as well provides protection to minors from accessing vape products by setting the minimum allowable age for the purchase, sale, and use of such products to 18 years old.