ILLEGAL VAPES

LAGUNA, Philippines – In a significant operation targeting the distribution of unregistered vape products, the National Bureau of Investigation Special Task Force (NBI-STF) seized approximately ₱30 million worth of illegal vape products in Biñan City, Laguna. The operation also led to the arrest of three individuals for various violations related to the illicit trade.

Acting on orders from NBI Director Judge Jaime B. Santiago (Ret.) to intensify efforts against unregistered vape products, NBI-STF agents conducted extensive cybercrime monitoring and surveillance across various social media platforms. These efforts uncovered a substantial network involved in the importation, sale, and distribution of illegal vapor products across Cavite and Laguna. Utilizing Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) and Human Intelligence (HUMINT), authorities identified the key individuals behind these illicit activities, obtaining their contact information, business details, and social media accounts.

The investigation included a surveillance and test-buy operation at “Hype VapeShop” located at Bacoor Boulevard, corner NIA Road, City of Bacoor, Cavite via an online transaction. This confirmed the establishment’s involvement in the illicit trade of unregistered vape products lacking the necessary Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) tax stamps and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) registration. An undercover agent successfully arranged a meeting with the suspects at a coffee shop in Muntinlupa City for the delivery of the products.

On July 7, 2025, NBI-STF agents, in coordination with representatives from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), proceeded to the agreed meeting place. The three suspects, identified as Kert Lester Simbajon y Abonales, Javer Dirampatun y Macarampat, and Romeo Cada y Obefias, led the undercover agents to a storage facility located in a residential area in Rose Village, Santa Rosa, Laguna, to complete the transaction. Upon arrival, the suspects presented the vape products, which consisted of 40,500 pieces of vape products valued at ₱31,995,000.00 and 3,880 pieces of vape pods valued at ₱640,200.00.

The seized products were confirmed to be unregistered, lacking the necessary DTI certification and BIR tax stamps. In contrast, the DTI has authorized several vape brands with valid Philippine Standard (PS) Licenses for sale in the market, including brands such as One Vape, X, and Vagend.

The three arrested individuals have been presented for inquest proceedings. They face charges for violating Section 4(d) and 18 of Republic Act No. 11900 (Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act), and Section 8 of R.A. No. 11900 in relation to R.A. No. 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012).