New research from the Institute for Global Tobacco Control at Johns Hopkins University reveals that vaping among Filipino young people has increased sharply since 2022, when national rules were relaxed to allow flavored e-cigarettes and lower the legal purchase age from 21 to 18 years old. Data from the Food and Nutrition Research Institute shows youth vaping rates rose from 7.5 percent in 2021 to nearly 40 percent in 2023.
Based on interviews with 171 young people aged 13 to 20 across Metro Manila, Cebu and Davao, the study identifies sweet and fruity flavors, social media content, influencers and peer influence as the main factors driving interest and continued use. Participants reported that appealing packaging and inconsistent health warnings made products seem less harmful, while social media posts and viral “vape tricks” created a sense of popularity and acceptance.
Senator Pia Cayetano and the Philippine Smoke-Free Movement have called for a reversal of the 2022 policy changes. They emphasize that flavors act as a key hook for young users and urge strict enforcement of full graphic health warnings and renewed restrictions on flavored products. Researchers note that evidence-based policies, including a return to flavor bans and higher purchase ages, are needed to protect young Filipinos from nicotine addiction.
The study is available alongside supporting materials and an interview opportunity with lead researcher Dr. Tuo-Yen Tseng.
