Manila: A public health advocacy group and over 60 youth organizations have called for a comprehensive vape ban in the country to protect the younger generation from a growing "vapedemic."

According to Philippines News Agency, in a collective push coinciding with World Health Day, HealthJustice Philippines and the rest of the advocates urged the government to align its policies with several ASEAN neighbors that have already enforced total bans on electronic cigarettes and novel nicotine products.

Former Health Secretary and HealthJustice board member Dr. Jaime Galvez Tan emphasized the urgency of the matter, applauding young leaders for their united call to address the vapedemic affecting Filipino youth. He stated that an absolute ban is necessary to end the "cycle of misinformation" surrounding vapes and to safeguard the health of young Filipinos.

In an open letter addressed to the Philippine government, the Global Youth Voices coalition supported the Department of Health's (DOH) recent pronouncements calling for a total ban. Philippine Smoke-Free Movement Youth national coordinator Rizza Duro urged lawmakers to take the DOH's stance as a "strong signal" to enact policies that prevent further health damage.

The advocates outlined three key measures for policymakers to adopt: prohibiting novel nicotine products to prevent the creation of a new generation of nicotine users, safeguarding health policymaking from tobacco industry interference in line with the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, and upholding the government's responsibility in protecting the health of future generations.

The coalition stressed that the decisions made by current leaders will shape the health environment of the future. They expressed hope that the Philippine government will act swiftly to protect public health and safeguard future generations.