The recent implementation of the Vape Law in the Philippines has been met with support from industry groups, particularly the Philippine E-Cigarette Industry Association (PECIA). This law aims to regulate smoke-free alternatives such as vape, heated tobacco, and oral nicotine pouches, to protect consumers, business owners, and non-smokers, especially the youth.
Industry leaders like Joey Dulay and Edward Gatchalian have emphasized the importance of the Vape Law in promoting responsible trade and cracking down on substandard and illicit goods. They point to the findings of public health institutions in countries like the UK, US, and Canada, which have shown that smoke-free products are significantly less harmful than traditional smoking.
The Vape Law also includes strict penalties for sellers found peddling to minors, as well as regulations on importation, manufacturing, sale, and distribution of vaping products. This ensures that consumers are protected from smuggled and poor-quality products that have not met the standards set by the Department of Trade and Industry.
President Bongbong Marcos Jr. has also called for agencies like the Bureau of Internal Revenue and the Bureau of Customs to strengthen efforts against illicit tobacco and vape smuggling, further demonstrating the government's commitment to enforcing the Vape Law.
In addition to consumer protection, the Vape Law has also had positive effects on the industry, such as creating livelihood opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises. Initiatives by the DTI and BIR have further reinforced the law's impact, such as prohibiting non-registered products from entering the country and introducing new tax stamps for smoke-free products.
Truly, the Vape Law in the Philippines plays a crucial role in curbing illicit trade, protecting consumers, and safeguarding the youth from accessing harmful products. It is essential that the government continues to enforce these regulations to ensure the well-being of the population and promote responsible trade in the industry.
The use and danger of plastic
Plastic is lightweight and durable, making it a versatile material for packaging and manufacturing. It is relatively inexpensive compared to other materials, making it accessible for a wide range of products and industries. It can be recycled and repurposed into new products, reducing the need for virgin materials.
However, plastic is non-biodegradable, meaning it can take hundreds or even thousands of years to break down in the environment, aside from plastic pollution being a major global issue, with millions of tons of plastic waste entering the oceans each year, harming marine life and ecosystems.
A Silliman University professor, Jorge Emmanuel, projected that plastic consumption will double by 2040. That means plastic production and disposal will continue to contribute to worsen greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts.
We already have a law, Republic Act 9003, or the Ecological Waste Management Act of 2000, we just need to do it justice, and by Prof. Emmanuel’s estimates, religiously implementing and following that law will dramatically reduce the plastic problem by 50% to 60%.
The Philippines has to reuse and recycle plastic products whenever possible to minimize waste and reduce the demand for new materials. Citizens should be responsible enough to choose products with minimal or recyclable plastic packaging to reduce overall plastic consumption. We have to support initiatives and campaigns that promote plastic waste reduction, such as beach cleanups, plastic bags, and recycling programs. We have to consistently educate people about the environmental impacts of plastic pollution and advocate for sustainable alternatives.
(Edwin M. Cordevilla is a multi-awarded writer, poet and author of several books. He is a former undersecretary of the Presidential Communications Office. You may send your comments at edcordevilla@gmail.com.)
Comments