In recent years, a disturbing trend has emerged among Filipino youth: the widespread use of electronic cigarettes or vapes. Advocacy groups, such as the Child Rights Network (CRN) and Parents Against Vape (PAV), are deeply concerned about this "vape epidemic" and are urging the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to take decisive action.
The Role of DepEd and CHEd in Addressing the Vape Epidemic
The CRN and PAV argue that DepEd and CHEd are in a strategic position to enforce the Department of Trade and Industry's (DTI) implementing rules and regulations on Republic Act 11900. This law regulates the use of vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products. In essence, they believe that the education agencies can more effectively address the vaping epidemic among the youth.
The Alarming Statistics
According to the 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey, 14.1% of students use electronic cigarettes. The data shows that 20.9% of boys and 7.5% of girls aged 13 to 15 have tried vaping. This means that one in every seven students – or one in every five boys and almost one in every ten girls – use electronic cigarettes.
The Dangers of Vaping for the Youth
The CRN and PAV are alarmed by these statistics and the potential consequences for the health and well-being of young Filipinos.
The Vape Industry's Marketing Tactics
Critics argue that the vape industry is preying on young Filipinos with their marketing strategies, perpetuating nicotine addiction and putting their health at risk. As a result, there is an urgent need to protect children's right to health and an environment free from tobacco and nicotine.
Call for Action: Implementing Vape Regulation Laws
To combat the vape epidemic among the youth, DepEd and CHED must prioritize the implementation of vape regulation laws and strengthen their efforts. In particular, the CRN emphasizes the need to activate DepEd's Child Protection Unit and Child Rights in Education Desk, as well as to release guidelines on the sale of vapes and e-cigarettes.
Banning Vape Sales Near Youth Centers
Both DepEd and CHEd should ban the sale of vapes and e-cigarettes within a 200-meter radius of schools and other youth activity centers. This includes playschools, preparatory schools, elementary schools, high schools, colleges and universities, youth hostels, and recreational facilities for persons under 18 years old.
Strict Implementation of RA 11900 by DTI
The CRN and PAV also call on the DTI to strictly implement RA 11900. The agency must use its monitoring powers to ensure the strict enforcement of the law and protect children from the marketing tactics of the tobacco and vape industry.
The Role of Advocates and Parents
Both groups further urge advocates and parents to help the government in ensuring that the regulations on electronic tobacco products are properly implemented.
Conclusion: Tackling the Vape Epidemic Together
Addressing the vape epidemic among the youth is a pressing issue that requires the combined efforts of DepEd, CHEd, DTI, advocacy groups, and parents. By implementing strict regulations and raising awareness, we can protect the health and well-being of young Filipinos and create a future free from the dangers of vaping.
FAQs
- What is the "vape epidemic" among the youth? The "vape epidemic" refers to the widespread use of electronic cigarettes or vapes among young people in the Philippines. This trend is alarming as it exposes them to the harmful effects of nicotine and puts their health at risk.
- Why are DepEd and CHEd considered strategically positioned to address the vape epidemic? DepEd and CHEd are responsible for overseeing educational institutions, making them well-placed to enforce regulations and raise awareness about the dangers of vaping among students, teachers, and parents.
- What is Republic Act 11900? Republic Act 11900 is a law in the Philippines that regulates the use of vaporized nicotine and non-nicotine products, aiming to protect the public, especially the youth, from the harmful effects of these products.
- How can the sale of vapes and e-cigarettes near youth centers be restricted? DepEd and CHEd can release guidelines that ban the sale of vapes and e-cigarettes within a 200-meter radius of schools and other youth activity centers, including colleges, universities, and recreational facilities for those under 18 years old.
- What role can parents and advocates play in addressing the vape epidemic? Parents and advocates can support the government's efforts by ensuring that regulations on electronic tobacco products are implemented correctly. They can also raise awareness about the risks of vaping and encourage young people to make healthier choices.