DILG calls on Bicol LGUs: ‘Strengthen anti-smoking ordinances’

By Jason B. Neola

Local governments urged to adopt measures protecting

communities from harmful tobacco, vaping products

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is urging all local government units (LGUs) to respond favorably and promptly to its call to reinforce the enforcement of national laws on tobacco, vapor, and vaporized nicotine products through the passage of aligned local ordinances.

In a recently issued memorandum circular, the DILG emphasized that LGUs are expected to actively implement national laws including Republic Act (RA) 9211 or the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003; RA 11900 or the Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act; RA 10643 or the Graphic Health Warning Law; as well as fiscal measures such as RA 11467 and RA 10351.

The agency highlighted the critical role of LGUs in ensuring smoke-free environments, establishing compliant designated smoking areas, enforcing graphic health warning regulations, and prohibiting the sale and use of tobacco and vapor products among minors and non-smokers.

LGUs in Albay, Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, Catanduanes, Masbate, and Sorsogon are encouraged to adopt local ordinances that mirror and support these national policies, as part of a united effort to safeguard public health and prevent the rising incidence of smoking and vaping among youth.

With strong local action, communities can be better protected from the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine use. Through timely and responsive legislation at the city, municipal, and provincial levels, Bicol’s LGUs can play a vital part in building a healthier, smoke-free region.