Impose total vape ban, PH urged as 8 ASEAN states adopt prohibition
Philippine health advocates are urging lawmakers to ban vapes, following similar prohibitions in eight other ASEAN countries.Summary
Public health advocates in the Philippines are calling for a complete ban on electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and other nicotine delivery systems, citing a growing “vapedemic” and the example of eight other ASEAN nations – Brunei, Cambodia, Lao PDR, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Vietnam, and Myanmar – that have already implemented such bans. Former Health Secretary Dr. Jaime Galvez Tan argues that while increased taxes on these products are welcome, a comprehensive ban is necessary for stronger public health protection and regulatory clarity. Data indicates significant e-cigarette use among Filipino youth and adults, with misconceptions about their harm levels. Experts warn that e-cigarettes are not harm-reduction tools and pose serious health risks, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and respiratory illnesses, as highlighted by the first EVALI-related death recorded in the Philippines in 2024. Advocates emphasize the Philippines’ obligations under the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and believe a total ban would also help curb illicit trade and simplify tax administration.
(Source：Inquirer)
