MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) is stepping up efforts to halt the smuggling and circulation of “Thuoc Lao”, or black cigarettes, following recent gains against the illegal tobacco trade.

Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said law enforcement is intensifying intelligence operations in coordination with the Bureau of Customs (BOC), Department of Health (DOH), and other agencies, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to safeguard public health.

“We have seen the alarming effects of these black cigarettes. We are working closely with other law enforcement agencies to prevent their entry and proliferation,” Nartatez said Wednesday.

Thuoc Lao, also known as “tuklaw,” is a highly potent tobacco product originating from Northern Vietnam, with nicotine levels up to 9 percent, far higher than regular cigarettes. Some variants are reportedly laced with synthetic cannabinoids.

The National Tobacco Administration has not authorized the importation of Thuoc Lao. Authorities raised alarms last year after teenagers reportedly suffered seizure-like symptoms, including body jerks and involuntary twitching, after smoking the product.

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) earlier warned that certain vape products may contain the same synthetic cannabinoids found in Thuoc Lao cigarettes.

(PNA)