Filipino Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa has urgently called on the Philippine National Police (PNP) to take action to ensure that minors cannot easily access e-cigarettes. In a recent initiative, Herbosa reminded police, retailers, and stores to effectively enforce the relevant sales ban regulations and prevent the sale of e-cigarette products to underage individuals.
Although overall tobacco use rates have decreased, a concerning trend is the growing popularity of e-cigarettes among teenagers.
According to the 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey data, 11% of students use tobacco, 10% of students smoke cigarettes, while 14% of students use e-cigarettes. This figure is also confirmed in the Philippine Pediatric Society's 2021 data, which indicates that 11% of children aged 10-15 have tried e-cigarettes.
Despite regulations that prohibit the sale or distribution of tobacco products within a 100-meter radius of schools, public playgrounds, or other places where children may be present, the implementation of the 2022 e-cigarette bill has lowered the age restriction for sales, lifted the ban on public use, and allowed for advertising. This has raised concerns in society about the skyrocketing use of e-cigarettes among minors.
Hilbosa's emphasis serves as not only a warning for the health of young people but also a reminder of the wider societal responsibility for public health. Last year, the Philippine National Police made it clear that the discovery of smoking in schools would result in the confiscation of e-cigarettes, demonstrating the government's serious stance on underage smoking.
This urgent action is not only aimed at restricting the sales of e-cigarettes, but also at protecting the physical and mental health of young people. Against the backdrop of international concern over youth smoking, the Philippine government's measures also highlight its commitment to public health.
Notice
1. This article is provided exclusively for professional research purposes related to industry, technology and policy. Any reference to brands or products is made solely for the purpose of objective description and does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation, or promotion of any brand or product.
2. The use of nicotine products, including but not limited to cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and heated tobacco products, is associated with significant health risks. Users are required to comply with all relevant laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.
3. This article is strictly restricted from being accessed or viewed by individuals under the legal age.
Copyright
This article is either an original work by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with the original source clearly indicated. The copyright and usage rights of this article belong to 2Firsts or the original source. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other unauthorized use of this article by any entity or individual is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally responsible. For copyright-related matters, please contact: info@2firsts.com
AI Assistance Disclaimer
This article may have utilized AI to enhance translation and editing efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, errors may occur. Readers are advised to refer to the sources provided for more accurate information.
This article should not be used as a basis for any investment decisions or advice, and 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any errors in the content.
