Art, Film, and Community Action: Amplifying the Youth Call for a Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Philippines
Advocacy for a smoke-free and vape-free Philippines is not confined to legislative discussions. Through film, public art, community events, and youth participation, advocates are bringing tobacco control messages into public spaces and encouraging more people to take part in the movement for healthier communities.
In 2026, the Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD) and its partners supported creative and community-based initiatives that connected the Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Environment Bill, with the everyday experiences of Filipinos.
Film and community dialogue in Quezon City
On June 2, 2026, the Quezon City Government hosted a Solidarity Day for the Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Environment Bill, featuring a film screening of youth-produced films on tobacco control issues.
The activity brought together local officials, advocates, media, and community partners to discuss the importance of stronger smoke-free and vape-free protections. Speakers included PLCPD Executive Director Aurora Quilala, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, representatives from the national government, and advocates working to protect children and families from tobacco and vaping harms.
The program featured six short films produced by youth advocates and filmmakers. Originally screened in December 2025 following an August filmmaking boot camp, the films used storytelling to communicate tobacco control messages and invite audiences to reflect on how tobacco and vaping affect people and communities. The young directors also joined the discussions sharing their filmmaking experiences.
Photos courtesy of Quezon City Government’s Facebook Page
Taking the message to the streets in Tabaco City
On June 17, 2026, the Junior Jaycees of Tabaco (JJC Tabaco), together with PSFM, Kilos Tabaqueño, and the Office of Representative Krisel Lagman, organized Dalagan Tabaqueño 2026.
The 3K and 5K fun run promoted healthy lifestyles while raising awareness of tobacco control and House Bill No. 9603. Participants and partners helped bring the call for healthier communities into a public activity that encouraged residents to take part in the advocacy.
The event also drew support from local leaders and advocates, including representatives of the Tabaco City Government, PSFM, and Parents Against Vape. The participation of local officials helped connect community-level action with the wider campaign for stronger smoke-free and vape-free protections.
Photo courtesy of JJC Tabaco’s Facebook Page
Youth creativity and public art in Cebu City
On August 14, 2026, the PLCPD, together with tobacco control partners, creative groups, the University of the Philippines Cebu, and the Cebu City Government, held a solidarity activity in Cebu City in observance of International Youth Day. The activity brought together young people, artists, students, campus journalists, and advocates to amplify support for the proposed Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Environment Bill, or House Bill No. 9603, through creative expression and community engagement.
A highlight of the event was the unveiling of a mural in Teofel Hostel, created in collaboration with Cebu-based artists from Pitik Bulag. Members of Pitik Bulag are part of Cartoonists for Tobacco-Free Generation, a creative initiative that uses visual art to communicate tobacco control messages. Zachary Borromeo, also known as Cartoonist Zach, led the mural work, transforming a public space into a platform for raising awareness and encouraging conversations about the importance of protecting communities from the harms of tobacco smoke and vape aerosol.
The activity also featured a screening of youth-produced films, followed by a talkback session that allowed participants to reflect on the stories and messages presented. Among the featured films was Pahuway (Rest), created by young Cebuano filmmakers with support from PLCPD. By showcasing stories developed by young creatives, the session highlighted how film can make public health issues more relatable, encourage critical reflection, and give young people a platform to express their perspectives on the environments in which they live and grow.
The gathering received messages of support from Representative Krisel Lagman, lead author of House Bill 9603; Representative Ann Matibag, also a principal author of the bill; and Representative Kathryn Gorriceta, principal author of the bill and Senior Vice Chairperson of the House Committee on Health. Support from Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival was also noted, reflecting local and national support for efforts to advance stronger smoke-free and vape-free protections.
More than a call for legislative action, the activity demonstrated the role of young people and creative communities in shaping public conversations. Through murals, films, and dialogue, participants helped bring the goals of House Bill no. 9603 beyond the halls of Congress and into the community, reinforcing the message that young people are not only among those who stand to benefit from healthier public spaces, but can also be active voices in advocating for them.
