A TOBACCO control organization yesterday strongly urged young Filipinos to use their money to buy food instead of cigarettes and vapes.
In a statement for the celebration of the World No Tobacco Day this Wednesday, the Health Justice Philippines said it would be better to spend money on food.
“The youth should be guided to spend on healthy food that nourishes and sustains their well-being, and not on their addiction to vape or cigarettes,” Health Justice Philippines said.
The non-government organization said national and local government units must reduce ban the use and sale of cigarettes and vapes within 100 meters from schools.
“By doing so, they will not be able to buy any of these products while in school, and will instead spend their allowances on healthy foods,” the NGO said, adding: “We urge the Philippine government to increase tobacco taxes.”
The group said the youth must be protected against the aggressive promotional campaigns influencing and enticing them to purchase vapes and cigarette products.
“Lawmakers should strengthen the law against advertising, promotion, and sponsorship of tobacco products with emphasis on stronger protection for children and young adults,” said Health Justice.
According to the 2019 Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) for the Philippines, 12.5 percent of Filipino adolescents aged 13 to 15 years use various tobacco products.
Similarly, some 14.1 percent of those in the same age group are using electronic cigarettes, based on the 2019 GYTS.
