Manila: The Baguio City Local Health Board is pushing for the creation of the City Alcohol Regulation and Enforcement (CARE) Task Force to strengthen interagency coordination and reduce alcohol-related harm. Mayor Benjamin Magalong, who chairs the Board, said the city supports a proposed ordinance that seeks to regulate alcohol consumption and address problems associated with excessive drinking.

According to Philippines News Agency, Magalong emphasized that excessive alcohol consumption has high social and economic costs for families, communities, and government institutions. He pointed out that alcohol consumption can lead to disturbances and accidents, contribute to various health problems, and sometimes result in family conflicts.

Magalong added that alcoholism also reduces productivity. The proposed measure aims to protect the youth, strengthen families, promote responsible drinking environments, and prevent alcohol-related harm through evidence-based public health policies, in line with the city's goal of promoting itself as a "character city."

Under the proposal, the CARE Task Force would implement a comprehensive public health framework covering responsible alcohol service, protection of minors, regulation of alcohol availability, enforcement, public education, surveillance, and harm-reduction interventions.

In a separate statement, City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes said alcohol consumption is linked to noncommunicable diseases and other lifestyle-related illnesses. She highlighted the importance of health professionals encouraging healthy lifestyles, including avoiding smoking, limiting or abstaining from alcohol, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly to reduce the risk of heart, lung, and liver diseases, as well as other alcohol-related illnesses.