DOF, DOH seek ban on disposable vapes

TWO government agencies have expressed the idea of banning disposable vapes due to their harmful effects. 

Disposable vapes, which are single-use devices pre-filled with e-liquid, are not registered with the Department of Trade and Industry, according to Finance Secretary Ralph Recto.

”I think we should ban disposable vape products,” Recto said. “We don’t know if it’s safe to be unregulated. They do not pay taxes and are sold or appealed to minors.”

The Department of Health said it supports Recto’s proposal, saying ”disposable vapes and vapor products pose significant health risks, including e-cigarette or vapor product-associated lung injury (EVALI), nicotine addiction, and respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, among others.”

”Disposable vapes are also made with plastic and batteries, which are not easily recyclable or biodegradable,” the DOH said.

”These items result in electronic waste (e-waste) that contains harmful chemicals that can seep into soil and water sources, posing risks to both the environment and public health.”

The Philippines passed a law in 2022 that regulates the importation, assembly, manufacture, sale, packaging, distribution, use, advertisement, promotion, and sponsorship of vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products and their devices.

Republic Act 11900 aims to promote a healthy environment, protect the citizens from any potential hazards of these novel consumer products, reduce the harm caused by smoking, and ensure that the sale to minors and the illicit trade of vape and novel tobacco products in the country are prevented.