(PIA-NCR file photo)

HEALTH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa is calling on law enforcement agencies to step up measures to prevent minors from easily buying electronic cigarettes or vape as he noted an alarming increase in vape use among teenagers. 

In a media forum on Tuesday, January 16, Herbosa said he has submitted a request to the Philippine National Police (PNP) concerning the enforcement of laws related to vaping products. The aim is to make sure that "minors should not have access to vaping."

“We need stronger implementation at ang DOH magre-remind (and the DOH will remind), but I hope the police, vendors, stores will strictly implement no sale to minors of its vape products,” he said.

Herbosa highlighted a decline in overall tobacco use, decreasing from 29.7 percent in 2009 to 19 percent in 2022, possibly attributed to the sin tax on tobacco. Specifically, tobacco use among the youth dropped from 22 percent in 2007 to 12 percent in 2019. However, he expressed concern about the rising prevalence of e-cigarette use, which has now reached 14 percent among the youth, signifying a new challenge.

Addressing a growing threat

Data from the Philippine Pediatric Society also paint a concerning picture: 11 percent of students aged 10-15 in the Philippines have already tried vaping, with online accessibility (32 percent), diverse and enticing flavors (22 percent), and misconceptions about safety (17 percent) fueling the trend.

Also, a 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey revealed that about 11 percent of students nationwide use tobacco, 10 percent smoke cigarettes, and 14 percent patronize e-cigarettes.

Related story:

https://pia.gov.ph/news/2023/08/09/vaping-more-harmful-than-smoking-lung-expert

While traditional tobacco regulations restrict sales near schools and public spaces, loopholes and lax enforcement remain. An Institute for Global Tobacco Control (IGTC) study revealed over 2,000 tobacco product vendors operating within 100 meters of at least 276 schools, and a similar issue with vape retailers with at least 43 e-cigarette and 33 heated tobacco products retailers were located near several schools. The study, conducted from December 2022 and January 2023 in nine cities, and urban and rural areas of the country.

This, despite Republic Act No. 9211 (Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003) and Executive Order No. 106 issued by President Rodrigo Duterte, which prohibit the sale or distribution of tobacco products within 100 meters of schools, public playgrounds, or other facilities where minors may be found.

Moreover, in 2022, the Vape Bill became law, reducing the age restriction for such products from 21 years old to 18 years old. The legislation also lifted the comprehensive ban on vapes and heated tobacco products in public places, and it permitted their advertisement.

A call for collaborative action

Herbosa's call to the PNP highlights the need for a multi-pronged approach that includes enforcing existing regulations, addressing online sales, and raising awareness about the dangers of vaping.

Collaboration between government agencies, schools, parents, and healthcare professionals is crucial, stricter enforcement alone is not enough. Educational campaigns and community initiatives can combat misconceptions and promote healthy alternatives.

Challenges and concerns

The recent Vape Bill, which lowered the age restriction for vape products and eased marketing restrictions, has only exacerbated the problem. Rolling back these harmful changes is necessary to effectively protect youth.

Additionally, the deceptive allure of flavored vapes and the misconception of being harmless compared to traditional cigarettes add another layer of complexity to tackling this issue.

Smoking out any inaction

The DOH's proactive stance and its collaborative efforts are a source of hope. Their call to action serves as a rallying cry for all stakeholders to come together and protect the health and future of Filipino youth.

By prioritizing stricter enforcement, promoting awareness, and advocating for stronger regulations, we can turn the tide against vape use and build a healthier future for generations to come.

Together, let's ensure that the puffing clouds of vape smoke do not obscure the bright future of Filipino youth. Let's clear the air, protect our children, and create a future where health, not harmful habits, takes center stage. (PIA-NCR)