Philippines tightens online tobacco sales with mandatory age verification

The Department of Finance (DOF) has approved a new resolution from the Inter-Agency Committee on Tobacco (IAC-Tobacco) that mandates stricter age verification systems for all online tobacco sellers to better regulate the industry and protect minors.

The measure, which aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s commitment to public health and responsible regulation, requires online business operators including e-marketplaces, digital platforms, and e-retailers to install or enhance robust age verification systems.

The committee recently passed IAC-Tobacco Resolution No. 01, Series of 2025, which aims to ensure that no person below 18 years old can view, access, purchase, or sell cigarettes or tobacco products online.

“With this resolution, we will be able to more strictly control the sale and distribution of tobacco products. The DOF is always ready to help ensure the proper management of these products, especially in protecting our youth,” said Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, a member of the IAC-Tobacco.

The resolution reinforces existing laws, including Republic Act No. 9211 or the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003. Section 9 of RA 9211 declares it unlawful to sell and distribute tobacco products to any minor, saying that a seller’s unawareness of the minor’s real age is not an excuse. Section twelve further mandates retailers to verify the buyer’s age using a valid photographic identification containing the date of birth.

Online business operators are defined as establishments selling cigarettes and tobacco products through the internet, e-marketplaces, digital platforms, and e-retailers. The resolution also directs e-marketplaces and digital platforms to conduct due diligence over online merchants and implement necessary compliance measures.

They are required to submit proof of compliance to the IAC-Tobacco within 90 days after the resolution’s publication.