CABANATUAN CITY — Two individuals were arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation-Central Luzon Regional Office (NBI-CELRO) in Cabanatuan City on August 5, 2025, for allegedly selling unregistered vape products valued at around ₱10 million.

The operation, conducted under the supervision of NBI Director Judge Jaime B. Santiago (Ret.), followed reports of illegal importation and online distribution of vapor products lacking Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) stamps and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) registration.

NBI-CELRO agents conducted surveillance and test-buy operations, which confirmed the sale of unregistered vape products under the brand name “Spark.” The products included battery cartridges and flavored pods. A check with the DTI’s Office for Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products revealed that “Spark” is not registered.

A buy-bust operation was carried out at a warehouse located at Cantarilla Street near Perigola Street in Valdefuente, Cabanatuan City, leading to the arrest of suspects identified as “Marc” and “Angelo.” Authorities confiscated 100 boxes of vape products—each containing 200 pods and 200 cartridges/batteries—as well as two mobile phones.

Aside from lacking registration with the DTI and BIR, the seized products were found to be non-compliant with Republic Act No. 11900, or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act, for failing to display the required health warnings set by the Department of Health (DOH).

The suspects were brought to the NBI-CELRO office for booking and presented for inquest proceedings before the Office of the City Prosecutor of San Fernando, Pampanga.

NBI Director Santiago lauded the regional office for its successful operation, highlighting the Bureau’s commitment to curbing the sale and distribution of illicit vapor products.