PNP chief warns youth vs deadly ‘tuklaw’ drug
Philippine National Police chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III on Thursday urged young people to steer clear of a newly-detected illegal drug called “tuklaw” or “black cigarettes,” warning it is dangerous, has no medical use and could be deadly.
“There is a reason why it is declared illegal,” Torre told reporters in Taguig City. “First and foremost, and maybe the only and most important reason, it is dangerous. It is not used in mainstream medicine, so don’t try it. It could kill you.”
Torre said PNP Crime Laboratory has tested the substance and coordinated its findings with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB). The PNP Drug Enforcement Group is tracking its spread and suppliers.
Youth at risk
Torre stressed that the crackdown extends beyond tuklaw to all illegal drugs.
“Do something better with your time rather than using something that will destroy your life—or even end it,” he said.
PDEA Director General Undersecretary Isagani Nerez said in a statement on Aug. 8 that the drug has been linked to black cigarette sticks containing “thuoc lao,” a potent Vietnamese tobacco with up to 9-percent nicotine, laced with synthetic cannabinoids. These chemicals mimic the effects of marijuana but are far more potent. Laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of these compounds in seized samples.
Torre said many suspects arrested in tuklaw-related operations are 19 or 20 years old, fitting the profile of young people who are curious, inexperienced and vulnerable to addiction.
“Once you try it, you can’t get away from it,” he said. “I have never seen a handsome or beautiful drug addict. All of them are ugly.”
PDEA and DDB have issued public advisories on tuklaw and are working with law enforcement to trace its source and possible smuggling routes. Officials are also studying how to formally classify the substance under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act.
Videos circulating on social media have shown users, often young adults, experiencing convulsions and disorientation.
