ULAP conducted a webinar on March 25, 2024, titled "Protecting Consumers from the Dangers of Vape: A Webinar on National and Local Action for Smoke-Free Communities."

The webinar aimed to raise awareness about the health risks of vaping, discuss the role of local government units (LGUs) in regulating vape products under RA 11900, and share best practices for local action against vaping.

Dr. Ria Tan from the Department of Health (DOH) presented the harmful effects of vaping, including nicotine addiction, exposure to harmful chemicals and ultrafine particles, and increased risk of lung injury.

Asec. Amanda Nograles from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) discussed the regulations set forth by RA 11900, emphasizing the role of LGUs in implementing the law. This includes crafting local ordinances, collaborating with law enforcement agencies, and educating their communities about the dangers of vaping.

Atty. Mary Marjorie Martin-Chan, Councilor of Tuguegarao City, shared their city's initiatives against vaping. These include ordinances restricting the sale and use of vape products, public education campaigns, and rehabilitation programs for minors who use tobacco products.

The webinar highlighted the importance of collaboration between the DTI, LGUs, and other stakeholders in protecting citizens, especially minors, from the dangers of vaping.

A total of 132 participants joined the webinar, with 70 attending via Zoom and 372 joining through Facebook Live. Representatives from 48 LGUs and various national government agencies participated in the event.

The ULAP webinar series provided valuable insights into the national and local efforts to combat vaping and create smoke-free communities.