The Philippines Vape Bill is a reconciled version of Senate Bill 2239 or the ‘Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act’ which aims to regulate the importation, manufacture, sale, packaging, distribution, use and consumption of e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products (HTPs) using internationally-accepted standards to protect citizens from the hazards of regulated, unregulated and substandard products, and House Bill 9007 or the ‘Non-Combustible Nicotine Delivery Systems Regulation Act.’
A recent survey conducted in the Philippines by an Asian research network, found that nine out of ten, or 90%, of local smokers are in support of a public health strategy that endorses the use of safer nicotine alternatives such as e-cigarettes for smoking cessation.
Conducted by ACORN Marketing & Research Consultants and commissioned by consumer advocacy group Vapers PH, the study confirmed the wide public support for tobacco harm reduction. “Majority have positive perception, would consider switching to e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, and would like to have greater access to accurate information about these products,” said ACORN. Thankfully, the enactment of this bill means that the products are now legal and regulated.
Moving in the right direction
Community manager at the World Vapers’ Alliance, Liza Katsiashvili, highlighted that this is a step in the right direction for the country. “While most policymakers are misinformed and fight against vaping, the Philippines followed the right path to embrace vaping as an effective harm reduction innovation to save lives. Other countries should follow this example and endorse smart vaping policies to ensure improved public health for millions of consumers globally.”
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