Authorities Alert Public on Tuklaw Cigarettes’ Dangers
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) have issued a warning about the rising use of a product called “tuklaw” cigarettes. These cigarettes, currently circulating locally, are said to be more potent than marijuana and pose serious health risks.
Tuklaw cigarettes contain a special tobacco plant traditionally smoked in Vietnam, known as “thuoc lao.” According to sources, this tobacco has a nicotine content of about nine percent, which is significantly higher than the usual one to three percent found in regular cigarettes. This means tuklaw cigarettes deliver up to three times the nicotine, making them especially addictive and harmful.
Laboratory Findings Reveal Dangerous Components
PDEA’s laboratory analysis detected not only nicotine but also a synthetic cannabinoid. This synthetic substance mimics marijuana’s effects but is reportedly more powerful and hazardous. Authorities emphasized that these synthetic cannabinoids can trigger severe reactions when smoked.
Consumers of tuklaw cigarettes might experience psychotic episodes, hallucinations, and seizure-like symptoms. These symptoms include sudden, shock-like jerks and twitches in the body, which can be alarming and dangerous.
Smuggling and Online Sales Raise Concerns
PDEA Director-General Isagani Nerez highlighted that these deadly cigarettes are smuggled into the country and are reportedly sold online. This illegal distribution makes it harder to regulate and control their spread among the public.
In response to the growing reports about the harmful effects of tuklaw cigarettes, both PDEA and DDB announced plans to classify the synthetic cannabinoid found in these products as a dangerous drug. This move aims to strengthen the legal framework against their manufacture, sale, and use.
Collaboration for Comprehensive Policy
DDB Chairperson Oscar Valenzuela shared that the agencies will collaborate with health experts, government bodies, and other stakeholders. Their goal is to develop policies that are comprehensive, balanced, and practical for implementation.
Valenzuela stressed, “The ultimate intention is to safeguard the welfare and interest of the general public against the threats and dangers of potentially addictive and harmful substances, such as synthetic cannabinoids.”
The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products to help authorities curb the spread of these hazardous cigarettes.
For more news and updates on synthetic cannabinoids, visit Filipinokami.com.
