Ten public health and tobacco control organizations have urged the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to strengthen enforcement of restrictions on nicotine product promotions, alleging repeated violations involving IQOS and ZYN sponsorships of entertainment and cultural events.
In a complaint filed Thursday, October 22, the groups accused Philip Morris International (PMI) and its Philippine affiliate, PMFTC Inc., of violating Republic Act No. 11900, or the Vape Law, through the brands’ alleged promotion as co-presenters of the Filipino Music Awards on October 6 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Section 14(a) of the law prohibits sponsorship of concerts and cultural and artistic events. Whether the cited sponsorship arrangements violate the provision remains subject to regulatory investigation.
The complainants also flagged promotional materials they said lacked required health warnings and age restrictions, celebrity-linked marketing, and IQOS’s collaboration with Filipino artist Leeroy New.
They cited earlier complaints over IQOS promotions during the Sinulog Festival and a 2025 DTI preliminary order involving DJ Steve Aoki, arguing that the cases warrant closer scrutiny of potentially recurring marketing practices.
The groups asked the department to investigate, issue preventive and takedown orders where warranted, impose applicable penalties, and consider criminal referrals if evidence supports them.
“The law is clear on restrictions against tobacco promotion and sponsorship. What needs to be established now is whether these restrictions were violated and, if so, who should be held accountable,” said HealthJustice acting executive director Beverly Samson.
The organizations warned that linking nicotine products to music, entertainment and celebrities could make their use appear more socially acceptable, particularly to young people.
The complaint adds to regulatory scrutiny of how nicotine-related products are marketed in public-facing events, where sponsorships can provide brands with visibility beyond conventional advertising channels.
PMI and PMFTC could not be reached for comment. Their response to the allegations was not available at publication time.
