BOC destroys P3.26B worth of illicit vape products

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) is destroying approximately ₱3.26 billion worth of seized illicit vape products as part of a major anti-smuggling operation and to protect public health.

This large-scale condemnation, which began on April 7, 2025, follows President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to target unauthorized and unsafe vape items.

The operations are being conducted at waste facilities in Bulacan, namely RCU Waste Collection Services in Marilao and Barba Waste Management in Bocaue.

Since the ceremonial condemnation, the BOC has destroyed over one million vape products that were deemed unfit for public use or lacked proper clearances.

The destruction of these prohibited goods aligns with Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act) and Republic Act No. 11900 (Vape Products Regulation Act).

The operations are jointly supervised by personnel from the Auction and Cargo Disposal Division, Enforcement and Security Service and Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service of the Manila International Container Port and the Port of Manila.

Security support is being provided by augmentation forces from the Philippine Army and Philippine Coast Guard.