PHILIPPINES
Following an executive order by President Duterte banning smoking in public places, the Philippines Department of Health (DOH) is considering regulating the use of e-cigarettes and vaporizers.
Paulyn Ubial, health secretary, said e-cigarettes and vapes are not covered by the smoking ban. “We will make a separate issuance, like a Food and Drug Administration [FDA] order,” she said. No details about the proposed regulation could be revealed since it is still under study.
Under the executive order, smoking is banned in schools, workplaces, government facilities, establishments that provide food and drinks, accommodations and professional services, outdoor spaces such as playgrounds, sport centers, church grounds, hospitals, transport terminals, markets, parks, resorts, waiting areas, walkways and sidewalks, elevators and stairwells, locations where fire hazards are present, and public transportation.
DOH will draft the necessary implementing rules and regulations for the enforcement of the nationwide smoking ban.