A 16-year-old boy from Barangay Talon-Talon, Zamboanga City, was declared dead on arrival at a hospital earlier today after allegedly suffering cardiac arrest believed to be linked to the use of a vape device containing the so-called “zombie drug” locally known as sabah-sabah, according to initial reports.
The tragic incident shocked and saddened residents of the community after news spread that the teenager suddenly collapsed shortly after reportedly using the substance.
According to the victim’s grandmother, the teenager had allegedly been using a vape device that may have been mixed with sabah-sabah, a dangerous synthetic drug that authorities have long warned about due to its severe psychological and physical effects.
Witnesses and residents who were familiar with the situation said the teenager reportedly experienced sudden weakness before collapsing. Family members and concerned residents rushed him to a nearby hospital in an attempt to save his life. However, doctors later declared the boy dead on arrival.
The victim’s remains have since been brought to a local funeral home while authorities continue their investigation to determine the exact cause of death and whether the suspected drug use directly triggered the fatal cardiac arrest.
The incident has once again raised alarm over the presence of sabah-sabah, often referred to as a “zombie drug,” in several communities. Authorities say the substance is extremely dangerous, capable of causing severe behavioral disturbances, loss of body control, hallucinations, and in extreme cases, fatal heart attacks.
Community members expressed deep concern over the growing accessibility of illegal substances among young people. Some residents noted that the drug is sometimes consumed through unconventional means, including mixing it with vape liquids, making it easier to conceal and more appealing to teenagers.
Police have not yet confirmed the exact chemical composition of the substance allegedly used by the victim, but they said an investigation is ongoing to identify the source of the drug and determine whether others may be involved in distributing it in the area.
Health experts also reiterated the dangers associated with vaping, particularly among young people. While often marketed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, vape products still contain harmful chemicals and addictive substances such as nicotine, which can significantly affect brain development in teenagers.
Medical studies have shown that vaping can expose users to toxic chemicals, including heavy metals and compounds linked to lung damage and respiratory illness. Some cases have also been associated with a condition known as EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping use-associated lung injury), which can cause severe and sometimes fatal damage to the lungs.
In addition to respiratory risks, vaping may also affect heart health. Experts say it can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially raising the risk of heart complications, especially when combined with other harmful substances.
Following the incident, barangay officials and concerned residents called for stronger anti-drug campaigns and stricter monitoring of illegal substances that may be circulating within communities. They also urged parents and guardians to closely watch over their children and be vigilant about the growing threat of drug abuse among the youth.
Community leaders emphasized that the death of the young teenager should serve as a wake-up call, warning that the dangers of illegal drugs and substance abuse continue to threaten the lives of young people if left unchecked.
Authorities said further updates will be released as the investigation progresses.