BAGUIO CITY – The Baguio City government backed the proposed House Bill No. 9603 or the Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Environment Bill filed by Albay first district Rep. Krisel Lagman, calling it a significant step towards strengthening public health protection nationwide.

Mayor Benjamin Magalong said the bill is a timely and necessary step that will build on the efforts of local government units like Baguio City which has long been recognized for its leading smoke-free policies.

“I have always believed that we must do what is right. This principle has shaped our governance in Baguio, especially in our long-standing commitment to protect public health and promote a smoke-free environment.”

Magalong said Baguio's smoke-free program was built through decades of consistent policy action, including the enactment of anti-smoking ordinances, stronger local laws, executive issuances, and ongoing enforcement campaigns.

He said the city's experience has shown that smoke-free and vaping-free policies are effective in reducing exposure to second-hand smoke, protecting youth from nicotine addiction, and creating healthier public spaces.

The proposed national measure aims to institutionalize smoke-free and vaping-free environments in public places and workplaces, harmonize policies nationwide, and strengthen local enforcement efforts.

Magalong said that while there is a local initiative, a unified national framework is needed to close the implementation gaps and ensure uniform protection for all Filipinos.

This city, through the Smoke-Free Baguio Task Force, joined the formal filing of the bill in the House of Representatives on Monday, June 1, with members of the Philippine Smoke-Free Movement.

Magalong said the city is proud to have its anti-smoking ordinance recognized as a pioneering law that served as a model for other local governments and is now helping shape the proposed national law.

“The right to clean air and public health must be protected not only locally but also nationwide,” the mayor said, adding that Baguio is ready to share best practices and lessons learned to support the implementation of the measure once it becomes law.

The bill aims to provide stronger protection against cigarette smoke and vape aerosols in all public places, especially in areas frequented by children and youth.