The Philippines' Department of Health (DOH) is advocating for stronger regulations, including a potential nationwide ban on vape products, citing deceptive marketing practices that target minors. Health Secretary Ted Herbosa criticized vape companies for claiming their products are nicotine-free and safe, despite containing harmful chemicals.
Herbosa highlighted that while the legal age for vaping is 18, marketing tactics featuring flavors and cartoons clearly appeal to youth. He noted observing students in uniform using vapes, stating, "Their real market is our youth." He suggested that if strict enforcement of existing laws fails, a "total ban" might be the easier solution to ensure young people cannot access these products.
The DOH reiterated that both cigarettes and vapes are linked to cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and lung illnesses. Data from the 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey indicates that one in seven Filipinos aged 13 to 15 uses vapes. The country also recorded its first vape-related death last year. The DOH affirmed its commitment to prioritizing public health over industry interests, aligning with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
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