Baguio: The city government is intensifying the enforcement of its anti-smoking and vaping ordinance, with cigarette sellers facing closer scrutiny as authorities seek to limit access to tobacco products. Mayor Benjamin Magalong said Friday that while public awareness of the city's ban on smoking in public places has improved, the government is now focusing on making cigarettes more difficult to obtain.

According to Philippines News Agency, enforcement teams are conducting discreet intelligence operations and inspections in barangays to ensure compliance with restrictions on cigarette sales, including the ban on selling cigarettes per stick and the prohibition on unauthorized selling. The anti-smoking task force, along with personnel of the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) and Public Order and Safety Division (POSD), has also deputized enforcement agents in the barangays to help implement the ordinance.

Under the ordinance, the sale of cigarettes is prohibited within a 100-meter radius of schools, government offices, and churches. The ordinance also bans the display of cigarettes and advertising materials in establishments, as well as selling cigarettes per stick. Smoking is likewise prohibited in public places, including roads, alleys, parks, and public utility vehicles. Smoking in private business establishments is allowed only in approved smoking areas, subject to strict requirements.

The city classifies vape products as cigarettes under its ordinance. Mayor Magalong said no permits have been issued to establishments or businesses to sell vape products and supplies. He acknowledged that vape products continue to be sold online but said city intelligence operatives are monitoring online activity.

The city government is also supporting a proposed national government initiative to prohibit the online sale of vape products. Dr. Donnabel Tubera-Panes, action officer of the anti-smoking task force, said the city's recent recognition at the 2026 ASEAN Smoke-Free Award (ASA) is motivating officials to sustain its tobacco-control efforts.

She said the campaign has also raised awareness among tourists about Baguio's smoking restrictions. The efforts are aimed at encouraging smokers and vapers to quit for better health outcomes.