The Department of Health (DOH) has urged President Duterte to veto a proposed measure seeking to lower the age of those allowed to buy and use e-cigarettes and vapes from 21 to 18.

The DOH said the approval of the proposed Vaporized Nicotine Products Regulation Act is contrary to Duterte’s position to protect the public from the harmful effects of smoking.

“The Vape bill is contrary to public health goals and to President Duterte's established position to protect Filipinos – especially the youth – from the harmful effects of smoke and emissions from tobacco products, vapor products, and heated tobacco products,” the department said in a statement on Saturday.