DOH bans electronic cigarettes, vapes in public places

July 2, 2019

The Department of Health ( DOH) has banned electronic cigarettes and vapes in public places and enclosed spaces.

The DOH Monday issued Administrative Order (AO) No. 2019-0007, which sets rules and regulations on Electronic Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS). It takes effect 15 days after it is published in newspapers.

"The use of ENDS shall be banned in places where smoking is prohibited," said AO 2019-0007 signed by DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III.

The DOH said designated vaping areas shall be similar to those required for designated smoking areas. 

Under the EO, smoking is banned in public places means all places that are accessible or open to the public or places for collective use, such as schools, workplaces and government facilities.

DSAs refer to an area of a building or conveyance, where smoking may be allowed, which may be in an open space or separate area with proper ventilation.

Purchase, sale, and use of ENDS to those below minimum allowable age shall be prohibited.

Distribution, sale, and offering for sale and use of ENDS shall be prohibited in places where sale and use of cigarettes are not allowed.

The order provides for a comprehensive ban on any form of advertising, promotion, and sponsorship, including corporate social responsibility, of ENDS products. DMS