ILOILO City’s campaign to be a smoke-free metropolis gives hope to a world where public health is increasingly at risk from lifestyle-related illnesses. Its Anti-Smoking Ordinance that aims to improve the quality of life of its residents has earned international recognition, including the prestigious ASEAN Smoke-Free Gold Award. This shows what can be accomplished when leadership, enforcement, and community engagement come together for a common goal.
The implementation of the Anti-Smoking Ordinance, coupled with the active involvement of the Iloilo City Anti-Smoking Task Force (ICAST), has set a standard for other cities to emulate. Regular patrols, issuance of citation tickets to violators, and ongoing public awareness campaigns have made smoke-free policies a visible and tangible reality for residents and visitors alike.
One of the most striking aspects of Iloilo City’s strategy is its ability to align policy enforcement with public education. The city has not only prohibited smoking in public spaces but has also invested in educating its citizens about the health risks associated with tobacco use. This dual approach ensures that compliance is not merely the result of fear of penalties but stems from a deeper understanding of the benefits of a smoke-free environment.
The city highlights the importance of political will and leadership. Mayor Jerry Treñas’ support for the anti-smoking initiative has been instrumental in its enforcement. His administration’s focus on public health is a powerful example for other local government units (LGUs) looking to implement similar policies. Leadership, however, is just one piece of the puzzle; Iloilo’s success is also built on collaboration among government agencies, private entities, and the community.
Iloilo City’s smoke-free policies have created ripple effects beyond public health. By reducing exposure to secondhand smoke, the city has fostered a cleaner and more inviting environment for tourists and investors. This aligns perfectly with its vision of becoming a premier destination for both cultural and economic opportunities. Moreover, the city’s recognition on the ASEAN stage reinforces its image as a progressive and forward-thinking urban center.
The lessons from Iloilo City’s experience: implementing a successful anti-smoking policy requires more than just legislation. It demands sustained enforcement, community involvement, and education. Other cities, both within the Philippines and across Southeast Asia, would do well to study Iloilo’s model and adapt it to their own contexts. The benefits — from improved public health to enhanced urban appeal — are too significant to ignore.
Change is possible when there is a shared vision and a collective effort. By following in Iloilo’s footsteps, other urban centers can create healthier, cleaner, and more livable environments for their citizens.
