Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas and Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. have thrown their support behind a proposed measure that seeks to establish smoke-free and vape-free public spaces across the country, saying the legislation is a crucial step in protecting public health, particularly the youth.

In a video message, Treñas said safeguarding children and young people from the harmful effects of tobacco smoke and vape aerosols is a shared responsibility of government and the public.

The mayor said the proposed legislation would strengthen efforts to keep schools, workplaces, parks, and other public spaces free from secondhand smoke and vape emissions.

Treñas highlighted Iloilo City’s long-standing commitment to tobacco control through sustained anti-smoking campaigns in schools, strict enforcement of smoke-free ordinances, and stronger implementation of public health policies.

The city’s efforts were recognized internationally after receiving the ASEAN Smoke-Free Award Gold in 2024.

“We join the call for a healthier, cleaner and safer Philippines. Let us work together to build communities where every Filipino can breathe clean air and enjoy a healthier future,” Treñas said.

Defensor also endorsed the proposal in a separate video message, expressing support for the appeal of Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong and Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa for Congress to pass a nationwide smoke-free and vape-free law.

The governor said the measure goes beyond regulating vape products, stressing that its primary objective is to protect public health, especially among young Filipinos.

Defensor noted that while many local governments have already enacted anti-smoking ordinances, a national law would provide a uniform legal framework and ensure consistent implementation of smoke-free and vape-free policies throughout the country.

“The bill will help safeguard our schools, parks, markets, workplaces, and public spaces from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke and vape aerosols. We respectfully urge Congress to pass the Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Bill for cleaner air, healthier lives, and a brighter tomorrow,” he said.

The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen existing public health measures by expanding protections against exposure to tobacco smoke and vape emissions while promoting healthier communities nationwide.IMT