Health advocacy groups in the Philippines have taken a stand 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, aims to regulate the promotion and sale of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and heated tobacco products (HTPs) within the country, with a focus on curbing youth access and appeal to non-smokers.

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 reduce the attractiveness of vape products to young people by limiting advertising and promotional activities, prohibiting depictions that appeal to minors or portray vaping as harmless, and regulating the flavors and ingredients allowed in vape products. The law also restricts the placement of point-of-sale displays and limits the use of promotional incentives.

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.