Barbers Wants Vape Maker to Explain Serious Violations of Vape Law
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Barbers Wants Vape Maker to Explain Serious Violations of Vape Law. Surigao del Norte 2nd District Representative Robert Ace Barbers has called for Flava Corporation, a prominent vape product manufacturer and importer, to explain its alleged serious violations of the country’s vape law before Congress. The demand was made on Monday in light of recent findings by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).
DTI Report and Legal Violations
The DTI reported that Flava Corp. violated the law by selling flavored vape products, which are explicitly prohibited. This revelation has added to the ongoing investigation by the House into Flava Corp. for alleged tax evasion.
“This Flava Corp. has been under investigation by the House for its reported tax evasion. Now here comes DTI finding the same corporation guilty, if news articles are to be relied on, for selling vapes with prohibited flavors that are considered dangerously appealing to minors,” said Barbers.
Republic Act 11900 and Flavor Restrictions
Barbers, who chairs the House Committee on Dangerous Drugs, emphasized that under Republic Act (RA) 11900, only tobacco and mint flavors are permitted. All other flavors that could entice minors and non-smokers are banned to prevent the initiation of vaping among these groups. The objective of RA 11900 is to help tobacco smokers transition to less harmful vape products.
“If enticing flavors are allowed, previous non-smokers and minors might pick up the vape habit, which is not good either since it was never intended to be a healthy substitute for tobacco smoking. Vape is not healthy at all with all its chemical composition,” Barbers added.
Reports of Liquid Shabu and Psychoactive Substances
Barbers also highlighted alarming reports that some traders are allegedly smuggling liquid shabu and other addictive psychoactive substances into vape juice. These substances are known to be highly addictive and can severely impact brain function, mood, awareness, thoughts, feelings, and behavior.
“Psychoactive substances are addictive and affect how the brain works, causing changes in mood, awareness, thoughts, feelings, or behavior. These are manifestations observed in users and victims of these substances,” he said.
Health Risks and Legal Actions
Citing a recent case, Barbers pointed out the first recorded death in the country attributed to severe lung injury from vaping, involving a 22-year-old individual. He stressed that the law prohibits “open” vape products, which allow flavors and juices to be added by traders or vapers themselves.
“If this is now being done, serious charges must be filed against these violators, and hefty fines imposed. Adding liquid shabu and other addictive substances is a serious violation of RA 9165, the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Any company, manufacturer, trader, or seller found guilty will face the full might of RA 9165 and additional heavier penalties,” Barbers warned.
Protecting the Youth
Barbers urged the youth to recognize that vaping is no better than smoking, emphasizing the serious health risks associated with both habits.
“Serious health damage can happen to vape users who pick up this habit,” he said. “We in Congress will strictly monitor these products and will be actively engaged in how they are being marketed. It is our duty to protect the youth and the people. It is never ‘cool’ to smoke or vape.”
Conclusion
The call for accountability and stringent monitoring of vape products underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health, particularly among the youth. With ongoing investigations and potential legal actions, the focus remains on ensuring compliance with existing laws and preventing the harmful consequences of vaping.