Philippines Seeks Public Opinion On Electronic Cigarette Advertising Permits

The Department of Trade and Industry of the Philippines (DTI) has invited stakeholders and the public to express their opinions on a policy draft, which proposes to implement a mandatory licensing system for advertising and promotional activities of electronic cigarette products (including electronic cigarettes and other new tobacco products).
The proposed departmental executive order (DAO) requires advertisers to obtain an advertising license or promotion license from the Special Authorization Office for Nicotine Vaporization and Non-Nicotine Products before conducting any advertising activities.
According to the draft, application for advertising campaigns must be submitted at least 30 days in advance, with the duration of the campaign up to one year (extendable for six months), and proof of the business license, promotional materials, and the fact that the retail store is not within 100 meters of schools or areas frequently visited by minors must be submitted. The licensing fee varies depending on the type of license, the geographical area, and the number of prizes. Any modification to the promotional content must be reported 14 days before release.
The policy also stipulates that online promotions must have a mandatory age verification mechanism in place to ensure that only users aged 18 and above can access.