MANILA – Health advocates and more than 60 youth organizations on Tuesday pushed for a nationwide prohibition on vaping products, warning of rising risks to young Filipinos amid increasing use of electronic cigarettes.
Marking World Health Day, the unified call was spearheaded by HealthJustice Philippines alongside allied youth groups, who urged policymakers to align local regulations with stricter measures already implemented in parts of Southeast Asia.
Public health expert Jaime Galvez Tan said a total ban would help curb what he described as a worsening “vapedemic” and address widespread misconceptions about vaping products.
The Global Youth Voices coalition, in an open letter, backed the position of the Department of Health, which has recently signaled support for stronger controls, including the possibility of a complete ban.
Meanwhile, Rizza Duro of the Philippine Smoke-Free Movement Youth encouraged legislators to view the DOH’s stance as a catalyst for stronger legislative action that would help prevent long-term health consequences.
Advocates proposed three major policy directions: prohibiting new nicotine-based products to stop the rise of new users, shielding public health policy from industry influence consistent with international tobacco control frameworks, and ensuring government accountability in protecting public welfare.
The coalition stressed that decisive leadership is needed now, as present-day policy choices will shape the country’s health landscape for future generations.
They concluded by urging swift government action to prioritize public health and curb the growing use of vaping products among the youth.
ia/xf
