Health advocates seek full vape, tobacco ban after Myanmar ban
Philippine health advocates are urging a complete ban on vapes and tobacco following Myanmar's recent prohibition, citing health risks and youth accessibility.Summary
Following Myanmar’s enactment of a vape ban – becoming the eighth ASEAN country to do so – Philippine health groups are renewing calls for a total ban on e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products, and other nicotine delivery systems. Advocates like Dr. Jaime Galvez Tan of HealthJustice emphasize that a comprehensive ban offers the strongest public health protection and regulatory clarity, surpassing the current debate over tax increases. Concerns center around the rapid increase in vape product use, particularly among young people, with data indicating significant youth and adult usage rates in the Philippines. The first death linked to EVALI was recorded in the Philippines in 2024. Experts from SEATCA highlight the false promotion of e-cigarettes as harm-reduction tools, detailing the toxic effects of nicotine and other chemicals on cardiovascular and respiratory health. Advocates point to the Philippines’ commitment to the WHO FCTC, allowing for stricter measures, and argue a ban would also simplify tax administration and combat illicit trade, aligning with the Department of Health’s 2025 call for a nationwide ban.
(Source：Manila Bulletin)
