QUEZON CITY, (PIA) – In line with the observation of ‘World No Tobacco Day’ on Wednesday, May 31, the city government of Malabon held a motorcade which sought to raise awareness regarding the harmful effects of cigarette use. 

The City Health Department led the campaign with an aim of achieving a ‘Smoke-Free Malabon’ towards contributing to sustainable environmental health and well-being of populations. 

In addition, City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval spearheaded the signing of the Pledge of Commitment and Support to signify the shared commitment of the key members of the local administration to the said cause including the city councilors and barangay captains. 

“Nakiisa tayo sa kampanya tungo sa isang malusog at smoke-free na Malabon bilang pagdiriwang ng World No Tobacco Day, sapagkat dito sa Malabon, nakatuon tayo sa pagtataguyod at pagprotekta sa kapakanan ng ating kababayan (We enjoined in the campaign towards a healthy and smoke-free Malabon in celebration of World No Tobacco Day, because here in Malabon, we focus on the advancement and protection of our citizens’ welfare),” said Mayor Jeannie. 

“Hinihikayat ang mga Malabueños na makilahok sa kampanya upang pigilan ang mga kabataan at bawat indibidwal na manigarilyo at sa halip ay magkaroon ng healthy lifestyle (Malabueños are encouraged to join the campaign to prevent the youth and each individual from smoking and instead allow them to have a healthy lifestyle), the local government added. 

This year’s celebration of World No Tobacco Day is anchored on the theme “We Need Food, Not Tobacco.” 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the main objective of this campaign is to end the tobacco epidemic and improve the state of global food security by urging governments to mobilize farmers into growing sustainable crops instead of tobacco that could further intensify environmental degradation. (PIA-NCR)