After consecutive pushes for nearly four years, the Department of Health (DOH) revived its efforts for the enactment of nationwide vape ban amid surging concerns on youth vaping and health risks.
During the May 6 hearing of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography on Senate Bill 21 or the “Vapes and HTPs Regulation Act,” the said department argued that existing safeguards were insufficient and stronger measures are necessary as vaping continues to pose risks such as nicotine addiction and potential long-term health effects.
The DOH then emphasized that a complete prohibition on vape products is considered the simplest and most cost-effective solution, gaining the support of Senate Deputy Majority Leader Risa Hontiveros.
“We need stronger measures because current regulations are not enough to protect young people from vaping risks,” Hontiveros remarked.
A need to remove flavors that attract minors, and consideration of these tighter regulations were highlighted.
It is also recalled that the DOH has been opposing vaping since July 2022, wherein vape products across the country have been regulated under Republic Act No. 11900 instead of being banned.
For the following years, the agency consistently raised concerns about youth vaping, nicotine addiction, and flavored products, and in May 2026, it renewed its call for a total ban, citing public health threats.
In addition, it noted that numerous neighboring Asian countries have already implemented vape bans, including Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Timor-Leste.
While there is no nationwide imposition of total ban yet in the Philippines, the DOH continues to urge authorities to strengthen regulations.
Written by Crecedes Danao
Crecedes Danao is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
