Cigarette firm to challenge Trade department findings

CIGARETTE manufacturer PMFTC, Inc. on Friday said it would comply with government rules regarding vapes and related products, but indicated that it would challenge findings that it violated the law.

The company said that complainants had failed to properly consider the facts and a law barring posts, messages or images promoting the use or purchase of vapes and related products.

"We are committed to full compliance with all applicable government regulations in the conduct of our business," PMFTC said in a statement.

"However, we believe that the alleged formal charge stems from a misappreciation of the facts and the law," it added.

"We do not market to minors under any circumstances, and our communications are strictly intended for legal-age consumers. We actively implement robust measures and utilize available technologies to prevent our messaging from reaching unintended audiences."

The company said that "moving forward, we will address the alleged violation at the administrative proceedings in due time."

The Trade department, acting on a complaint by tobacco control and public health organizations, said that PMFTC had violated the law in sponsoring a concert by American DJ and record producer Steve Aoki where the IQOS ILUMA x Steve Aoki Limited Edition was also promoted.

"The complaint flagged violations linked to the 'Steve Aoki Live' event scheduled for 26 April 2025 at Xylo Club in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, which featured promotional content for the IQOS ILUMA product line," the Trade department said in a statement.

PMFTC was said to have confirmed the collaboration and the department said that "effective immediately, PMFTC is prohibited from engaging in any form of outward and online marketing or advertising of its IQOS ILUMA x Steve Aoki Limited Edition."