Vape users urged to follow QC ordinance

MANILA, Philippines — Quezon City Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte yesterday urged vape or e-cigarette users to follow an ordinance that regulates its use in the city.

Belmonte said the Quezon City government passed the ordinance last year. “Basically, this ordinance prohibits anyone to use electronic cigarettes in enclosed places where other people can be exposed to these,” she said.

Some of the areas where e-cigarette smoking is prohibited include places of worship, hospitals and health centers, public conveyances, government offices and educational or recreational facilities intended for minors.

The ordinance also regulates the advertisement and promotion of e-cigarettes through several restrictions, including prohibition of advertisements aimed at minors.

The ordinance imposes a fine of P500 to P1,000 fine for the first offence; P1,000 to P2,500 fine for the second offence; and P2,500 to P5,000 for the third offence, with possible revocation of permit and licenses for business establishments.