Health advocacy groups have formally lodged complaints against ZYN, a nicotine pouch brand, and IQOS Philippines, a heated tobacco product (HTP) company, alleging violations of the Republic Act No. 11900, commonly known as the Vape Law. The law, enacted in 2022, establishes regulations surrounding the promotion and sale of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and heated tobacco products (HTPs) within the Philippines.

The complaints, filed recently, center on accusations that ZYN and IQOS Philippines have engaged in marketing practices that circumvent the restrictions outlined in the Vape Law. These restrictions aim to curb youth access and appeal to non-smokers, particularly by limiting advertising and promotional activities.

Republic Act No. 11900 mandates stringent controls on the advertisement of vape products, prohibiting depictions that appeal to minors or portray vaping as harmless. It also restricts the placement of point-of-sale displays and limits the use of promotional incentives. The law further regulates the flavors and ingredients allowed in vape products, aiming to reduce their attractiveness to young people.

Specific details regarding the nature of the alleged violations and the identity of the health groups filing the complaints were not immediately available. However, the complaints are expected to trigger an investigation by the relevant regulatory bodies tasked with enforcing the Vape Law. These bodies will assess the evidence presented and determine whether ZYN and IQOS Philippines have indeed violated the provisions of the law.

The Vape Law was enacted in response to growing concerns about the rising popularity of vaping among Filipino youth and the potential health risks associated with these products. Proponents of the law argued that stricter regulations were necessary to protect public health and prevent nicotine addiction among young people. The complaints against ZYN and IQOS Philippines represent a significant challenge to the implementation of the Vape Law and highlight the ongoing debate surrounding the regulation of nicotine products in the Philippines.