MANILA, Philippines — Even without a formal executive order from President Rodrigo Duterte, police arrested 10 persons around Metro Manila for vaping or using e-cigarettes in public.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday started enforcing the President’s ban on the use of e-cigarettes in public.

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“The said initiation yielded 10 violators in the National Capital Region, particularly in Sta. Cruz and Malate, Manila and Makati City through the conduct of police mobilized patrol,” acting National Capital Region Office (NCRPO) director Police Brig. Gen. Debold Sinas said in a statement on Sunday.

“In the enforcement thereof, we are bound to ensure that all violators will be arrested and properly recorded in the blotter book,” he added.

On Tuesday, Duterte ordered the ban of vaping devices or e-cigarettes in public, including its importation. Those who will violate it will be arrested.

Despite the arrests, however, the PNP has yet to specify the charges to be filed against those caught violating the President’s verbal order. Still, Sinas said the ban on importation and use of vapes will be among their “top priorities.”

He assured the public that all confiscated items will be accounted for and disposed of properly.

Sinas also said a “no vape zone” in their camp will be implemented and all NCRPO personnel are instructed to refrain from violating the order.

Edited by MUF

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