BACOLOD CITY – The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) urged the public to remain vigilant over a dangerous type of cigarette known as “Tuklaw” or “Thuoc Lao” from Vietnam.
“We must be proactive in educating students not to use or try these products,” Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director, said.
Ibay said they are intensifying efforts to combat illegal substances in the region.
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) warned that Tuklaw contain not only high levels of nicotine but also synthetic cannabinoids, substances more potent and hazardous than marijuana.
Reported side effects among users include seizures, hallucinations, and psychotic episodes.
Authorities said that Tuklaw is smuggled into the country and sold online.