LEGAZPI CITY, Albay (PIA) – The city government has started an enhanced campaign to educate young people about the risks associated with smoking, vaping, and other tobacco products, focusing on fostering a healthier, smoke-free future.
Portia Rogando, the smoke-free program coordinator for the Legazpi City Health Office (LCHO), emphasized that the campaign aims to educate young people about the key provisions of the newly enacted comprehensive smoke-free ordinance, including prohibited actions and potential violations.
The ordinance, effective January of this year, prohibits the use, sale, distribution, and advertisement of cigarettes, electronic delivery systems, heated tobacco products, and other tobacco products in areas commonly visited by minors, including public spaces.
“We aim to raise awareness about the harmful effects of smoking and vaping so that the youth will avoid these harmful habits early on. Once they start, it becomes incredibly hard to quit due to the addictive nature of these substances,” Rogando stated.
As part of the campaign, an LCHO team visited 20 schools in March and plans to extend its outreach to more schools in April. The city’s initiative also aims to dispel the misconception that vaping is a healthier alternative to smoking.
Raphaela Albor, the city’s assistant legal officer, emphasized the importance of correcting this misinformation, particularly among minors.
“Vaping is not a safer option. It poses severe health risks not only for those who smoke or vape but also for those exposed to secondhand smoke,” Albor stated.
𝗦𝗺𝗼𝗸𝗲–𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀
The initiative has received strong support from both students and educators, who recognize the importance of raising awareness about the long-term consequences of smoking and vaping.
Princess Mikaela, a student from Washington International School, stated: “Campaigns like these help students understand the real consequences of smoking. It may seem cool at first, but it ultimately harms your body.”
Devyn Grace de Vera from Forbes College echoed this sentiment, saying, “It’s crucial for us to be aware of the risks of smoking from an early age so we can avoid choices that may lead to health problems later in life.”For Karl Reymund Tapia, a Grade 11 student from St. Agnes Academy, the initiative was a step toward ensuring a “healthier future for all.”
“Raising awareness at an early age can help students avoid decisions they might regret later,” he said.
Patrick Ayala, the OIC coordinator at Forbes College’s senior high school department, lauded the initiative, acknowledging the increasing trend of vaping among young people.
“This campaign aims to raise awareness about the dangers of vaping and smoking, emphasizing that today’s generation must understand the associated health risks,” he stated.
Penalties
According to the new ordinance, individuals found violating the rules will face fines ranging from P1,000 to P2,000, along with community service requirements of 16 to 72 hours for first, second, and subsequent offenses. There are also separate penalties for businesses and parents of minors who violate the regulations. (With reports from Bicol University – Broadcasting Department interns/PIA5/Albay)
