Smoke-free, vape-free bill pushed

THE filing of the Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Environment Bill in the House of Representatives drew support from Quezon City Mayor Josefina Tanya G. Belmonte, who cited the measure as a crucial step toward strengthening public health protections.

During the TobaccOFF Now Youth Film Festival on Tuesday, Ms. Belmonte said the proposed legislation responds to the continuing rise in tobacco and vape use among Filipinos, noting that around 15.1 million adults use tobacco products based on the 2021 Global Adult Tobacco Survey, while an estimated 1 million young people start smoking or vaping every year.

“As we stand in solidarity this National No Smoking Month, we advocate for stronger policies that safeguard the health and well-being of our fellow Filipinos, especially our youth,” she said.

On June 1, Albay Rep. Cielo Krisel B. Lagman filed House Bill 9603, or the Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Environment Bill, that seeks to protect the health of the public from cigarette smoke and vape aerosol in all public spaces.

During her privilege speech on Monday, Ms. Lagman stressed that exposure to tobacco and vape emissions extends beyond users and effects millions in homes, schools, parks, and public transport.

“The harm of tobacco and vape does not end with the smoker. Millions are exposed to tobacco smoke and vape aerosol in enclosed workplaces, public spaces, and public transportations,” she said.

Meanwhile, several organizations have also expressed support to the bill such as the Philippine Smoke Free Movement, Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD), HealthJustice, Social Watch, and Parents Against Vape. — Pexcel John Bacon