Revolution Smoke – Free is a campaign aimed at curbing smoking and reducing cases of tobacco – related diseases by urging the private sector to commit to smoke – free workplaces and encourage their employees to quit smoking.
The launching was attended by WHO Representative to the Philippines Dr. Gundo Weiler and PEZA General Manager Charito Plaza, who along with BCEZ Administrator Rene Joey Mipa, DOH – Cordillera OIC Regional Director Amelita Pangilinan and officials/representatives of
Weiler said Revolution Smoke – Free envisions a future where all types of workplaces from different industries are free from tobacco smoke. It has been rolled – out in different cities across Asia.
Weiler congratulated the vibrant private sector in the economic zone and the very committed city government in pushing for a smoke – free Baguio, given the depressing consequences of smoking not only to people’s health but also its economic consequences especially to poor people and its ill - effect to the environment.
Worldwide, there are 7 million people each year dying due to smoking - related illnesses and this include around 1 million passive smokers, Weiler added.
For PEZA’s part, Plaza outlined that the smoke – free Baguio City Economic Zone will now become the model for the other ecozones in the country. She bared that under her leadership, as they industrialize economic zones, two of their priority policies are to be environment – friendly and to protect the rights and welfare of their workers.
Pangilinan, in her inspirational message, said combating smoking, alcohol and drugs through healthy settings, policy and legislation and advocacy with the help of civil society, legislators, local government units, and the private sector is among the focus of the Fourmula One Plus, the DOH’s strategic thrust for the Philippine Health Agenda.
She also called on the BCEZ employers to help their employees change for the better, as healthier employees and workplace will also work better for their businesses.
For the Revolution Smoke – Free campaign, Mipa said that under the BCEZ are 100 companies and around 14,000 employees. (JDP/CCD-PIA CAR)
