PNP OIC Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa
Following President Rodrigo Duterte’s hardline stance on vaping, reports of policemen inspecting vape stores with some even confiscating items have sent jitters both to vape users and sellers.
But Philippine National Police Officer-In-Charge Lt. Gen. Archie Gamboa clarified that policemen are not arresting vape users but are merely reminding vapers to stop vaping, though there have also been vape users invited to police stations.
“Sabi ko sa kanila arrest, put them on the blotter and then release them. Very simple lang naman huwag na tayo gumamit ng vape. if you want to use vape, use it in private places,” Gamboa said.
Senate President Vicente Sotto III said there should be an ordinance banning public vape use in an area or a law to cover the entire country.
Sen. Panfilo Lacson for his part said the PNP should be armed with an Executive Order first before its personnel can effect an arrest or confiscate an item.
But Lacson is throwing his support behind President Duterte’s warning to courts not to issue a temporary restraining order on his vaping ban.
“Marami siyang ganoong decision na parang sa tingin natin hindi tama pero in the final analysis, tama ang result,” Lacson said.
Senate Ways And Means Committee chairperson Pia Cayetano said she will include vaping products in the Sin Tax bill.
Cayetano also wants to file a bill regulating e-cigarettes.
At the Lower House, Deputy Speaker Marlyn Alonte filed House Bill 5561 that seeks to ban vaping in all public places. (Jasper Camilo)