Source: Department of Health
Disposable vape ban backed
SENATE Committee on Health chair Christopher “Bong” Go has voiced support for proposals to ban the sale of disposable vapes in the Philippines, citing concerns over unregulated sale especially in the online market, the ease of access to minors, the potential health risks associated with these products, and failure to adhere to existing laws.
Go emphasized the critical need for stricter control over the sale and distribution of disposable vapes, particularly highlighting the dangers posed by their availability online.
“Most of these are sold online, without assurance that they are not being sold to minors. They are highly unregulated, and we do not know if these products are safe to use, potentially risking our people’s health. Moreover, given its unregulated sale online which are mostly not taxed, such practice deprives the government of its rightful revenue,” Go stated.
The senator referenced the existing vape law designed to ensure that vapes sold to consumers are safe and only available to those of legal age. He stressed the importance of enforcing these regulations to prevent minors from accessing such products.
“Kaya nga meron tayong vape law upang masiguro nating ligtas ang mga ibinebentang vapes sa mga users na nasa tamang edad lamang. Kung hahayaan nating ibenta ito online, wala tayong kasiguruhan na hindi nakakabili ang mga menor na edad,” he remarked.
Furthermore, Go called on the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to consider measures to address the sale of vapes online and ensure compliance with Philippine laws and regulations.
“Kaya panawagan ko na rin sa DTI, pag-aralan ang mga maaaring hakbang upang matugunan ito at masigurong ang pagbebenta ng vapes ay naaayon sa ating mga batas at regulasyon,” Go urged.
Finance Secretary Ralph Recto recently brought attention to the issue, noting that disposable vapes, most of which are unregistered with the DTI and evade excise taxes, could be a significant concern.
He clarified that a formal proposal has yet to be presented to the DTI, the agency responsible for regulating vapes and other new tobacco products.
The debate over disposable vapes highlights these products’ health risks and regulatory challenges. Disposable vapes, designed as non-rechargeable devices pre-charged and pre-filled with liquid, appeal particularly to younger demographics due to their accessibility and low cost.
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