PDEA warns public vs kush-laced vapes

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THE Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) has warned the public against the proliferation of marijuana-laced electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) or vapes in the market.

PDEA issued the warning as it noted an upsurge in the presence of vaping products with marijuana oil based on recent anti-illegal drug operations it conducted.

Last week, PDEA and Bureau of Customs personnel seized 18 balikbayan boxes containing P337 million worth of cannabis oil and marijuana kush hidden inside e-cigarettes at Port Area in Manila.

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Also last week, PDEA and PNP operatives seized cannabis oil, marijuana kush and assorted vaping devices worth P842,000 in an anti-drug operation in Taguig City.

“The selling and smuggling of marijuana oil cartridges indicate that there is a growing domestic demand for these products,” PDEA said in a statement.

“Considering that the vaping culture is predominantly popular among the youth, PDEA is wary that these cannabis extracts can be passed off as a legitimate vape aerosol in the market and sold to the younger patrons,” added PDEA.

PDEA warned the public against patronizing marijuana-laced e-cigarettes, noting the health hazards involved and the law that explicitly prohibits the use of marijuana.

“The proliferation of these illicit items can also expose unknowing customers to be addicted to marijuana,” said PDEA.

DEA said it has intensified its efforts to monitor the physical and online selling of marijuana-flavored cigarettes and other related paraphernalia.

“The agency is seeking the support and cooperation of the country’s regulating bodies to formulate tighter measures against vape stores, alongside retailers and importers, to prevent consumers from using prohibited substances,” the agency said.

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