Iloilo: The Iloilo city and provincial governments have expressed support for proposed legislation that would create a smoke-free and vape-free environment nationwide. In a video message, Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Tre±as emphasized the shared responsibility of protecting public health, particularly for children and young people.

According to Philippines News Agency, the proposed measure aims to keep schools, workplaces, parks, and other public spaces free from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke and vape aerosols. Mayor Tre±as highlighted Iloilo City's continuous efforts in anti-smoking awareness campaigns across educational levels and the consistent enforcement of smoke-free ordinances. The city was recognized with the ASEAN Smoke-free Award Gold in 2024.

"We join the call for a healthier, cleaner, and safer Philippines. Let us work together to create communities where every Filipino can breathe clean air and enjoy a healthier future," Tre±as stated.

In a separate video message, Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. supported Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong and Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa's call for Congress to pass legislation banning vape products nationwide. Defensor stressed that the proposal prioritizes protecting public health, especially among the youth, rather than merely regulating vape products.

He noted Magalong's emphasis on the need for a national law to ensure uniform implementation of smoke-free and vape-free policies, despite local governments' progress. "The bill will help safeguard our schools, parks, markets, workplaces, and public places from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke and vape aerosols. We humbly ask Congress to pass the Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Bill for cleaner air, healthier lives, and a brighter tomorrow," Defensor concluded.