Baguio: Only healthy food will now be served in events and functions funded by the city government, as part of efforts to promote a healthy lifestyle among residents. "We are also encouraging that national government agencies and even the private sector adopt the ordinance," city health officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes said on the sidelines of the "Kapihan with CARE" on Wednesday at the Department of Health (DOH) regional office's training center in Baguio City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ordinance No. 27, Series of 2026, or 'An Ordinance Establishing the Healthy Public Food Procurement Policy of the City of Baguio,' requires all food procured and served by local government offices to align with approved nutrition standards. "While non-communicable diseases that are meant to be preventable have become the top morbidity and mortality rate, the city recognizes that they can be avoided through proper nutrition and healthier food choices," Brillantes said.

Data from the local government showed that in 2025, there were 1,691 deaths for patients aged 30 to 70 due to non-communicable diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and cancer. There were 1,586 deaths in 2024.

She said the city has begun the implementation of promoting and practicing a healthier lifestyle, minimizing or prohibiting the production of food with excessive sugar, sodium, and trans-fat, which are big contributors to non-communicable diseases. In 2025, the city government also urged the public to walk to their destination as another means of addressing cardiovascular diseases.

Brillantes urged the public to work together in practicing healthy choices by producing and consuming healthier food, and by working toward the summer capital's safe and clean environment for the well-being of its residents.