Quezon City bans vaping in public

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 20) — Using electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) or vapes in public is no longer allowed in Quezon City.

This, after City Mayor Herbert Bautista on Wednesday approved City Ordinance 2737-2018 aimed at protecting the health and welfare of the residents of the city, as well as safeguarding the interests of all stakeholders.

The ordinance also bans the use of the product in places of worship, hospitals or other healthcare centers, government offices, and educational or recreational facilities primarily intended for minors.

Under the policy, vaping is allowed in places open to public as long as the phrase "Use of e-cigarettes is allowed inside" is posted at all entrances of the areas.

Private workplaces are allowed to designate a vaping area, provided that it is separate from the smoking area.

Minors, those below 18 years old, are prohibited from buying and selling e-cigarettes. Purchasing vapes from them are also not allowed.

The ordinance also regulates public conveyances, advertisements and promotions of e-cigarettes.

Manufacturers can advertise e-cigarettes through direct marketing and on the internet, but should not directly appeal to minors.

Advertisements should only depict e-cigarettes users "who are or appear to be above 25 years old." They should also not contain cartoon characters or subjects that depict humans or animals with comically exaggerated features or that attribute humans with unnatural characteristics to animals, plants or other objects.

Violators will be fined ₱500 to ₱1,000 for first offense; ₱1,000 to ₱2,500 for second offense; and ₱2,500 to ₱5,000 for the third offense.

The permit or license of businesses that will violate the policy may be cancelled or revoked.