CBCP health commission urges parishes to enforce smoke-free, vape-free policies

The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) Healthcare Commission on Thursday called on the parishes to strictly implement anti-smoking and anti-vaping measures.

In a video statement, the CBCP Healthcare Commission said banning smoking and vaping in the sacred places is a form of respect.

“[It is] causing preventable diseases, premature death, and even immense suffering to the families… Sana lahat po ng ating mga parokya, lahat ng ating mga lugar, ay mag-enforce ng strict smoke-free and vape-free policies," CBCP Healthcare Commission Executive Secretary Fr. Dan Cancino said.

(I hope all our parishes, all our areas, will enforce strict smoke-free and vape-free policies.)

"This is in accordance with our existing laws, and this is also out of respect for the sacred and concern for community health,” he added.

He asked the public to use the Holy Week to wean off smoking and vaping habits.

“We understand it is not easy. But with God's grace, liberation is possible. Kaya po natin ito," Cancino said. –NB, GMA News