PDEA WARNS VS MARIJUANA-FLAVORED VAPES

THE Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on Sunday warned the public against the use of vaping products that contain marijuana oil.

The PDEA issued the warning following the confiscation of cannabis oil and marijuana kush, as well as assorted vaping products worth P842,000 in Taguig City on March 14.

PDEA and the Bureau of Customs also intercepted last week 18 balikbayan boxes containing cannabis oil and marijuana kush hidden inside e-cigarettes worth P337 million in Port Area, Manila.

“PDEA warns the public not to patronize marijuana-laced e-cigarettes because of the health hazards involved, and most importantly the law explicitly prohibits it,” the PDEA said in a statement.

“The proliferation of these illicit items can also expose unknowing customers to be addicted to marijuana,” it added.

According to PDEA, selling and smuggling of marijuana oil cartridges mean there is growing demand.

“Considering that the vaping culture is predominantly popular among the youth, PDEA is wary that these cannabis extracts can passed off as a legitimate vape aerosol in the market and sold to the younger patrons,” the PDEA said.

PDEA also sought the support from concerned regulating bodies to come up with tighter measures against vape stores, as well as retailers and importers, to prevent people from using prohibited substances.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa in January called on the Philippine National Police to ensure that teenagers do not have access to vapes.

Republic Act No. 9211 (Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003) and Executive Order No. 106 issued by President Rodrigo R. Duterte prohibits the sale or distribution of tobacco products within 100 meters of schools, public playgrounds, or other facilities.