The Department of Health has already confirmed one death directly linked to vaping. What begins as a habit particularly among the youth often escalates into addiction and serious health consequences, with doctors uncovering shocking cases of lung damage linked to e‑cigarettes. These experiences highlight the urgent call from health advocates to confront the reality that vaping is not the “safer” alternative it is advertised to be.
The DOH and public health think tank HealthJustice Philippines are pushing for a total ban on vapes, saying weak regulations have fueled a growing crisis. They add that with eight ASEAN countries already banning vapes, the Philippines risks becoming a dumping ground for these products if lawmakers fail to act.