Isabela City, Basilan — A teenage boy was rushed to the hospital after suddenly convulsing and losing consciousness in a barangay in Isabela City, allegedly after trying a cigarette known as “Tuklaw,” an emerging and highly dangerous tobacco product now under close watch by authorities.
According to reports, the minor experienced severe weakness, dizziness, and seizure-like symptoms shortly after smoking the cigarette. Witnesses said the teenager began to twitch uncontrollably before collapsing. The Isabela City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) immediately responded and transported the victim to a nearby hospital where he was placed under close medical observation.
Authorities believe the incident is linked to the growing presence of “Tuklaw” (Thuoc Lao) cigarettes in the country — a product originating from Northern Vietnam and now reportedly being sold illegally, including online.
Not Just Tobacco — A Dangerous Drug
The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) have issued a strong public warning, stressing that while Thuoc Lao naturally contains extremely high levels of nicotine — up to nine percent compared to the usual one to three percent in regular cigarettes — laboratory tests revealed a far more alarming discovery.
Samples of “Tuklaw” cigarettes tested by the PDEA Laboratory Service were found to be laced with synthetic cannabinoids, dangerous chemicals designed to mimic the effects of marijuana but far more potent and unpredictable.
Using Gas Chromatograph–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), the PDEA confirmed the presence of these substances, which are known to cause:
- Psychotic episodes
- Hallucinations
- Violent body jerks and twitches
- Seizure-like attacks
- Loss of consciousness
“These deadly cigarettes laced with synthetic cannabinoids are obviously smuggled goods and pose serious health risks,” PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani R. Nerez warned. “We strongly advise the public, especially parents, to ensure their children do not even try this substance.”
Teens Most at Risk
Recent reports circulating online show several teenagers experiencing violent convulsions and collapse after smoking “Tuklaw,” raising serious concern among health and law enforcement authorities.
PDEA also warned against the practice of “shotgun smoking,” where smoke is forcibly blown into another person’s mouth — a dangerous act that can expose unsuspecting victims to high doses of these toxic substances.
“This is not a joke, not a trend, and not harmless experimentation. This is life-threatening,” authorities stressed.
Move to Classify ‘Tuklaw’ as a Dangerous Drug
In response to the growing threat, the DDB and PDEA are now initiating the process to classify Tuklaw cigarettes containing synthetic cannabinoids as dangerous drugs under Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002) and DDB Regulation No. 1, Series of 2014.
DDB Chairman Secretary Oscar F. Valenzuela said the agencies will work closely with the Department of Health, FDA, NBI, and other concerned sectors to ensure strict regulation and enforcement.
“The ultimate intention is to safeguard the welfare of the public against the threats of addictive and harmful substances, especially those targeting the youth,” Valenzuela said.
STRONG WARNING TO PARENTS AND YOUTH
Authorities are urging parents, schools, barangay officials, and community leaders to remain vigilant.
“One puff can cost a life.”
“This is not an ordinary cigarette — this is a dangerous drug.”
The PDEA warns that anyone caught selling, distributing, or smuggling “Tuklaw” may face serious criminal charges. The public is encouraged to immediately report any sightings or sales of the substance to the nearest police station or PDEA office.
A Community Wake-Up Call
The incident in Isabela City serves as a grim warning: a single moment of curiosity can lead to hospitalization, permanent damage, or even death.
As authorities intensify their crackdown, the message is clear:
Stay away. Stay alert. Protect the youth.
“Tuklaw” is not a trend — it is a threat.