PNP to enforce Duterte order vs. vaping in public

The Philippine National Police on Wednesday said it will begin enforcing President Rodrigo Duterte’s order to ban vaping in public areas.

In a late night press conference in Malacañang on Tuesday, Duterte ordered a ban on vaping in public, and the importation of vaping devices.

“I will ban it, the use and importation [...] because it is toxic [...] it is not good and contrary to public safety,” the president said.

In a statement, the PNP said its officer-in-charge, Police Lieutenant General Archie Gamboa, had already ordered “all police units nationwide to enforce the ban on use of vapes; ensure that all violators will be arrested and properly recorded in the police blotters; [ensure] confiscated items are accounted for and disposed of properly.”

Law enforcers have also been directed to “coordinate with local government units and agencies, vape stores, and owners to enhance the enforcement of the ban.”

The PNP declared its camps and offices as a “No Vape Zone” and directed all policemen to refrain from vaping in public.

“We assure the public that the PNP remains alert and vigilant to prevent occurrence of crimes in the run-up to the SEA games and Christmas season and ready to respond to any call for assistance,” they said. —Julia Mari Ornedo/LBG, GMA News