ANOTHER innovative approach and strategy in the comprehensive anti-smoking campaign in Iloilo City is to tap children in daycare centers as instrument to advise their parents against smoking.
Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said the anti-smoking advocacy will start from the daycare centers up to the university level, as the city braces for a total smoke-free urban center.
Mabilog, Councilor Joshua Alim and Iloilo City Anti-smoking Task Force (ICAST) executive director Inigo Garingalao received last week a Red Orchid Hall of Fame award from the Department of Health for the city’s innovations and programs on anti-smoking.
Mabilog said that adults usually do not listen to health alerts and warnings but always listen to the words of their young children, especially in daycare age.
The children, if informed properly at their young age, are effective communication instrument to impart to their parents the harmful effects of smoking.
Mabilog said that Iloilo is now included in the short list of smoke-free Asean cities due to its sustaining campaign to attain a smoke-free environment.
Up for deliberation next week at the City Council are possible amendments to the existing city ordinances to include young children in daycare centers as recipients in the comprehensive anti-smoking drive. (LCP)