Smoke- and vape-free TNVS pushed

The Department of Health (DOH), along with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the Department of Transportation (DOTr), and other transportation-related agencies, called for smoke- and vape-free Transportation Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) in Metro Manila.

On Friday, the DOH Metro Manila Center for Health Development (MMCHD) launched in Pasig City their 100% smoke-free and vape-free TNVS initiative in line with efforts to curb tobacco and vape aerosol exposure in the country.

The initiative would include placing smoke- and vape-free stickers on TNVS cars and recognizing TNVS companies that followed tobacco control policies.

The move falls under DOH’s Health Promotion Framework Strategy and National Tobacco Prevention and Control Strategy.

“Sa kabila ng mga umiiral na batas tulad ng EO 26 at RA 9211, nananatiling hamon ang tumataas na paggamit ng heated tobacco products at vapes, lalo na sa mga saradong espasyo tulad ng TNVS,” the statement said.

(Despite the existing laws and regulations like EO 26 and RA 9211, the increased use of heated tobacco products and vapes, especially in enclosed spaces like TNVS, remains a challenge.)

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday reported that 1.23 million people died from tuberculosis (TB) in 2024, with the Philippines accounting for 6.8% of global TB cases.

The Department of Health plans to screen 12 million Filipinos for TB in 2026. It has also proposed a budget worth P4.2 billion for the anti-TB campaign next year.

“Tuberculosis is a global challenge, and progress in any country means bringing the world closer to ending the disease," said Acting WHO Representative to the Philippines Eunyoung Ko. 

"Together, we are strengthening case-finding, getting more people on preventive medicines, and helping people who are infected stick to their treatment plan." —VBL, GMA Integrated News