PMA bats for anti-smoking program inclusion in school curriculum

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine Medical Association (PMA) will push for the integration of anti-tobacco campaign in the curriculum of students to create a generation of non-smoking Filipinos in the near future.

PMA president Dr. Oscar Tinio said that for best results, it is best to promote the concept of smoke-free Philippines among children.

“We will partner with government agencies particularly the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and work for the integration of an anti-smoking course for students in the elementary, high school and college levels to protect our youth from getting hook into this deadly habit,” he noted.

Tinio claimed that when children are exposed to the menace and uselessness of smoking early in life, it is likely that they would avoid cigarettes later on.

“Correct information and a sustainable educational program on the clear and present danger of smoking are among the key factors in the ultimate eradication of this vile addiction that continues to kill our people today,” he added.

The PMA had been supporting campaigns against smoking believing that as doctors, its members should be the role models for healthy lifestyle.

PMA national treasurer Dr. Marian Dobles said the group’s move to work for the inclusion of anti-tobacco drive in the curriculum is part of its HERO (Health Education Reform Order) program. HERO was conceptualized to ensure the prevention and decrease of common diseases through the inclusion of an effective and efficient public health awareness campaign in our country’s educational system.