The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has ordered the PMFTC Inc. to refrain from engaging in any form of outward and online marketing or advertising of its vape product IQOS ILUMA x Steve Aoki Limited Edition.
In a statement on Thursday, the DTI said it filed a formal charge and issued a preventive measure order against PMFTC on April 23 for violating Section 12(d) of Republic Act (RA) No. 11900, or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act.
RA 11900 prohibits any posts, messages or images promoting the use or purchase of such products, the DTI noted.
The DTI Office for the Special Mandate on Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products, their Devices and Novel Tobacco Products (OSMV) said it took action against the PMFTC in response to a complaint received on April 15 from a coalition of tobacco control and public health organizations.
The complaint pointed out violations allegedly committed during promotions in connection with the “Steve Aoki Live” event scheduled for April 26 at Xylo Club in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. Health advocates questioned the promotional content for the IQOS ILUMA product line.
In a statement on Thursday, the PMFTC said it is “committed to full compliance with all applicable government regulations in the conduct of our business” and “will address the alleged violation in administrative proceedings in due time.
