Baguio to host ‘smokefree’ forum

The Cordillera Regional Health Research and Development Consortium, in partnership with Health Justice Philippines, will conduct the Smoke-Free Research Dissemination Forum on January 30 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fortune restaurant here.

In a letter to Mayor Benjamin Magalong, consortium director Maria Rowena Madarang said the activity aims to inform the stakeholders of the result of a study commissioned by the World Health Organization regarding the implementation and compliance of select local government units in Benguet on their smoke-free ordinances.

Madarang disclosed that the WHO wanted to assess the effectiveness of smoke-free measures, the extent of compliance, and the reduction of exposure to second-hand smoke due to these legislations.

The study result may drive both local and national governments to formulate, design, and revise smoke-free policies, programs and activities that will create and promote healthy environments for Filipinos, it added.

“We recognize the crucial role of the city government of Baguio in promoting and protecting the health of its constituents,” said Madarang in her letter to Mayor Magalong.

“The full implementation of the city’s anti-smoking ordinance is the gold standard in the enforcement of local legislation on tobacco control,” added Madarang.

Adopted in 2017 and principally authored by former councilor Joel Alangsab, the Baguio Smoke-Free Ordinance prohibits the use, sale, distribution, and advertisement of cigarettes and other tobacco products in certain places and imposes penalties for violations.

The mayor has been requested to deliver a message of support during the forum and emphasize the importance of smoke-free policies in promoting public health and well-being. Representatives from concerned government offices have also been invited to the forum.