THE Philippine National Police (PNP) on Thursday joined the Departments of Health and Trade and Industry in addressing growing serious concerns regarding an increase in the number of youth using e-cigarettes and vapes in the country.

PNP chief, General Benjamin C. Acorda Jr. made the vow during a meeting with DoH Secretary Teodoro Barbosa at Camp Crame where their discussions centered on the urgent threat posed by the widespread use of these products to the physical health and overall well-being of the nation’s youth.

Gen. Acorda acknowledged the seriousness of the situation highlighted by Sec Herbosa and presented a comprehensive strategy to address the growing issue,

“Our law enforcement agencies will work hand in hand with the Department of Health to ensure the strict enforcement of existing laws, holding vendors and retailers accountable for compliance with age restrictions and imposing penalties for any violations,” the top cop said.

In line with the provisions of Republic Act No. 11900 or “The Vaporized Nicotine and Non-nicotine Products Regulation Act,” the legal age for purchasing vape products is stipulated at 18 years old and above, with a strict ban on vape sales within a 100-meter radius of educational institutions, playgrounds, and other areas frequented by minors.

Gen. Acorda during the meeting instructed the Directorate for Operations (headed by Major Grn. Ronald O. Lee to develop appropriate operational guidelines with a focus on apprehending vape sellers.

He also instructed the Directorate for Police Community Relations (headed by Mah. Gen. Edgar Alan O. Okubi to launch an awareness campaign to educate the public, particularly the youth, about the harmful effects of vaping.

He also called on media organizations to utilize their platforms to raise awareness about the negative consequences of vaping for both users and sellers, highlighting the health risks posed to children.

Moreover, all establishments were encouraged by officials to designate specific vaping areas for their patrons, promoting responsible and regulated usage.

During the meeting, a representative from the DTI, Acting Undersecretary Atty. Agaton Uvero underscored the significance of Department Administrative Order No. 22-06. The order aims to ensure that vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products manufactured, distributed, or sold in the Philippines adhere to specified requirements.

The DTI official also reminded stakeholders that the deadline for licensing applications expires in June this year to avoid legal repercussions and penalties.

Similar to traditional cigarettes, vaping also carries second-hand and third-hand effects due to the presence of harmful substances in vape products, emphasizing the severe health risks, particularly for minors.

The PNP, in partnership with the DOH and DTI, remains dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of the youth and the general public, said ONP spokesperson , Colonel Jean S. Fajardo.

These proactive measures are designed to address the current surge in youth vaping and shield future generations from the detrimental effects of these harmful products, Col. Fajardo added.

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