Tighter regulation of tobacco, vape sought
A Senate hearing addressed the need for stricter regulations on tobacco and vape products due to rising youth accessibility and health risks.Summary
Senator Risa Hontiveros led a Senate Committee hearing to discuss strengthening regulations on tobacco, vape, and related products. The discussion centered on bills amending Republic Act 11900, aiming to protect public health, particularly young Filipinos. Concerns were raised about the appealing marketing tactics—colorful packaging, sweet flavors, and online promotion—that attract youth to vape products, even those who have never smoked. The circulation of cannabis-infused vape cartridges was also flagged as a serious issue. The hearing covered health risks, youth protection measures (including age restrictions and smoke/vape-free schools), and implementation challenges of RA 11900, including clarifying regulatory authority between the Department of Trade and Industry and the Food and Drug Administration. Senator Tulfo even proposed a complete ban on vape products due to increasing youth addiction.
(Source：Journal News Online)
