The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-Cordillera warned the public on the proliferation of electronic cigarettes or vape products infused with cannabis or marijuana oil as well as liquid methamphetamine hydro-chloride or shabu among other forms of illicit drugs.
PDEA Regional Director Laurefel P. Gabales confirmed the proliferation of illicit drugs, particularly ecstasy and cannabis oil, in vape products in the country during the third quarter meeting of the City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (Cadac) on July 12.
He said the recent anti-narcotics operations in the National Capital Region and Puerto Galera served as a proof that vape flavors infused with illicit drugs add to the challenge on the war against illegal drug-use in the country.
He added these vape products laced with illicit drugs enter the country mostly by mail and parcel or brought by tourists.
Gabales said while the anti-narcotics agency is yet to catch cannabis oil producers and traders in the region, he encouraged the public to be wary since marijuana plants thrive locally.
He said adding liquid shabu and other addictive substances such as marijuana oil in vape flavors is a serious violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Members of the Cadac agreed to invite the Smoke-Free Baguio Task Force under the City Health Services Office to become a member of the council in view of the PDEA report on contaminated vape products.
The Cadac also eyes strengthening its partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry for stricter measures and monitoring of online commerce where vape products are usually sold and sent to buyers by courier. – Jessa Mardy Samidan
