The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of prioritizing our health. Now more than ever, the government should scale up efforts to promote healthy living choices to all Filipinos. Even prior to the pandemic, the Philippines is struggling to combat the ever-persistent problem on tobacco use. The official data from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey revealed that 23.5% of Filipino adults have experienced smoking. The deadly impacts of tobacco use in our health have been established for decades. The recent passage of significant tax increases on tobacco products not only reduced the smoking prevalence in the country but is also a manifestation of the government's commitment to rid the country of smoking-related diseases.

Now, more than ever is the most opportune time for a more stringent tobacco control measure to ensure a smoke-free new normal. The chief implementer of the National Task Force (NTF) on COVID-19 himself Gen. Carlito, Galvez revealed that smoking areas along with canteens and shuttle buses are virus transmission hotspots. Furthermore, toxic substances from tobacco and novel tobacco products weaken the body's immune system which increases the risk of contracting severe COVID-19 infections. 

The protection of our people, particularly the youth, should be at the center of all public health measures that will fortify our country as we head towards a new and better normal. This signature campaign aims to popularize the Smoke-Free Campaign and gain support for the passage of the Smoke-Free Environment Act (HB #8763) as this bill will bolster the mechanisms of implementing Smoke-Free Programs and Policies. 

Together with Social Watch Philippines and Philippine Smoke-Free Movement, let's fight for a Smoke-Free country for a healthier and happier future!