Ilonggo officials back anti-smoking, vaping bill

By Mariela Angella Oladive

Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. and Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu have expressed support for a proposed nationwide smoke-free and vape-free law, joining calls for Congress to pass legislation that would strengthen public health protection and ensure uniform enforcement across the country.

In separate video messages July 2, Defensor and Treñas backed the proposed Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Environment Bill, saying the measure would protect Filipinos, particularly children and young people, from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke and vape aerosols.

Defensor echoed the call of Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong for Congress to enact a national law, saying existing local ordinances alone are not enough to ensure consistent implementation.

“This measure is not only about regulation. It is about protecting the health and future of our people, especially our youth,” Defensor said.

He said that while many local government units have adopted anti-smoking and anti-vaping ordinances, a nationwide law would strengthen protection in schools, parks, markets, workplaces, and other public spaces.

“We humbly ask Congress: Please pass the Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Bill for cleaner air, healthier lives, and a brighter tomorrow for the Province of Iloilo and the nation. Let us choose a healthy environment for our children,” he added.

Treñas also urged lawmakers to support the measure, describing public health protection as a shared responsibility.

She said the proposed legislation would help keep schools, workplaces, parks, and other public spaces free from secondhand smoke and vape aerosols.

Treñas said Iloilo City has sustained anti-smoking awareness campaigns across all educational levels, consistently enforced its smoke-free ordinances, and strengthened their implementation over the years.

The city received the ASEAN Smoke-free Award Gold in 2024.

The statements from the two local chief executives came as lawmakers and public health advocates pushed for the passage of House Bill No. 9603, or the Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Environment Bill, filed by Albay Rep. Krisel Lagman.

The proposed measure seeks to establish smoke-free and vape-free environments in all public places and workplaces, particularly areas frequented by children.

It would expand smoke-free zones, eliminate designated indoor smoking and vaping areas, strengthen local enforcement mechanisms, require local government units to allocate funds for tobacco and vape control programs, and impose stiffer penalties for violations.

The bill has gained support from several local government leaders, including Magalong, whose city has been recognized for its smoke-free policies.