Anti-smoking campaign now in schools

CEBU, Philippines - The coverage of the “Garantisadong Pambata” (GP) Program of the Department of Health (DOH) has been expanded to include the no-smoking campaign.

This after DOH-7 Regional Director Dr. Susana Madarieta observed that more and more children nowadays are getting hooked on cigarettes.

“Findings revealed that generally, a child is already exposed and started smoking at an early age, as young as 10-11 years old. So it is very important that the activities and health of the children under this age bracket should be closely monitored,” Madarieta said.

The health official added that since smokers are getting younger, it is imperative that children be informed of the dangers of smoking.

The GP Program is an institutionalized, twice-a-year health campaign where a package of services is being provided such as immunization to children below five years old, Vit.A supplementation, proper hand washing, deworming and giving of health information to mothers and caregivers.

The inclusion of the anti-smoking campaign in schools will start this month, Madarieta said.

“Children aged six to 14 years old will now be included as beneficiaries of the GP Program targeting the age group for our anti-smoking drive,” Madarieta said.

 Madarieta lauded the City Governments of Cebu, Dumaguete and Canlaon City of Negros Oriental for passing anti-smoking ordinances. She said the same of the Municipalities of Amlan, Zamboanguita, Mabinay, Ayungon, Bindoy and Jimalalud.

Madarieta said the agency is further strengthening the “No Smoking” campaign as they set to recognize local government units that are active in promulgating ordinances in support of the campaign.

The Red Orchid Award ceremonies, slated this November 20, is the search for 100-percent smoke-free town, hospital and offices as part of the department’s promotion of the Healthy Lifestyle Program.

The DOH 7 recently issued a memorandum order banning smoking in its compounds. Since it was issued, no worker was seen smoking, which is a good sign for the campaign, she said. (FREEMAN)