CONSUMER GROUPS PROTEST UBIAL’S STATEMENTS VS E-CIGARETTES

Local consumer groups have strongly protested as “irresponsible and grossly inaccurate” the recent statements of Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial who said that electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes or “vapes”) contain the same chemicals used in cigarettes and can lead to more serious addiction to tobacco.

“It is both alarming and disappointing to hear an experienced physician and the highest health official of the land issue statements that directly contradict scientific evidence showing e-cigarettes are overwhelmingly less harmful than conventional cigarettes and can help smokers quit,” said Tom Pinlac, president of The Vapers Philippines.

“The health secretary should read the numerous independent studies supported by reputable organizations and published in respected scientific journals that show ecigarettes are a less harmful alternative to conventional cigarettes and are viable smoking cessation aids,” said Joey Dulay, president of the Philippine E-Cigarette Industry Association.

Addressing students of Felipe G. Calderon High School in Tondo last June 14 as the country observed “National No Smoking Month,” Ubial said the Food and Drug Administration had released an advisory that the products and components used in vape are still tobacco. “So it still contains the 7,000 dangerous chemicals that are found in cigarettes.”

Ubial accused groups promoting e-cigarettes of trying to mislead the public by marketing these as safe alternatives to cigarette smoking.