Local Gains, National Impact: LGUs Champion Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Environments

Across the Philippines, local governments have taken action to protect their communities from tobacco-related harms. Their efforts demonstrate that smoke-free and vape-free policies are not unfamiliar or untested ideas. Many local governments have already adopted measures to promote healthier public spaces and reduce exposure to tobacco smoke and vape emissions.

The challenge now is to build on these local gains and establish stronger, more consistent protections nationwide.

Local leadership for a national standard

On July 23, 2026, the Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD), along with the Philippine Smoke-Free Movement (PSFM) and other partners, mobilized local government officials across the country to sign the LGU Unity Statement for House Bill No. 9603 or the Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Bill.

Issued ahead of the President’s Fifth State of the Nation Address on July 27, the statement called for the prioritization of House Bill No. 9603 or the Smoke-Free and Vape-Free Environment Bill, as a national policy measure.

The signatories included governors, provincial board members, mayors, vice mayors, local legislators, and health officers from different parts of the country. Their signatures reflected support for stronger national action and recognition of the role local governments play in protecting public health.

The statement sent a clear message: local governments should not have to work in isolation to protect their constituents. A stronger national framework can help establish consistent standards while reinforcing the work already being done in communities.

Why national action matters

Local policies are important, but protections can vary between jurisdictions. A stronger national law can help close gaps, clarify responsibilities, and establish a more consistent approach to smoke-free and vape-free environments.

For children and young people, these protections are especially important. Reducing exposure to tobacco smoke and vape aerosol and limiting the normalization of tobacco and vaping in shared spaces are part of creating healthier environments in which they can live, learn, and participate.

House Bill No. 9603 offers an opportunity to align national policy with the public health goals already being pursued by local leaders.