PNP warns public: ‘Tuklaw’ cigarettes more dangerous than marijuana

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III has issued a strong warning against smoking illegal Thuoc Lao cigarettes, locally known as “tuklaw,” saying the substance can be as deadly as any other illegal drug.

“Tuklaw” is now a target of the PNP’s anti-drug campaign, with the PNP Drug Enforcement Group coordinating closely with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) to probe its contents and effects.

According to PDEA and DDB, “tuklaw” contains nicotine and a synthetic cannabinoid—far more potent and dangerous than marijuana—which can trigger psychotic episodes, hallucinations, and severe physical reactions.

Viral videos have shown users in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Palawan, and Taguig City experiencing seizure-like symptoms, such as sudden jerks and twitches, after smoking the substance.

Just last week, five students aged 19 to 25 were arrested in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, in a buy-bust operation for alleged involvement in the proliferation of “tuklaw.” Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of synthetic cannabinoids, and international labs are now assisting in further analysis.

Thuoc Lao, a tobacco plant from Vietnam’s northern mountains, traditionally has a nicotine content of up to 9%—triple that of ordinary cigarettes.

While it can be smoked or chewed in cultural rituals, its misuse through “tuklaw” has now turned it into a public health and safety threat.