Three tobacco control champions recognized in the Western Pacific Region

Every year on 31 May, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes individuals and organizations from all over the world for their vital contributions to tobacco control, through the WHO Director-General Special Recognition Award and World No Tobacco Day Awards. This year’s World No Tobacco Day focuses on protecting children from tobacco industry interference.

In the Western Pacific Region, one individual and two organizations  are recipients of World No Tobacco Day Awards this year in recognition of their outstanding efforts in tobacco control.

The Hangzhou Municipal People’s Government in China has demonstrated strong commitment to creating a smoke-free city since it first introduced smoke-free ordinance in 2010. In 2019, the city amended its smoke-free ordinance to further regulate smoking in public places, promote a smoke-free 2022 Asian Games and advocate for a smoke-free generation. These amendments include banning smoking in indoor public places, workplaces and public transportation, thus protecting the health of more than 12 million people. The ban also extends to the use of electronic cigarettes in public places where smoking is prohibited. 

To ensure that the public is aware of and complies with these regulations, the Hangzhou Government also implemented communication and engagement activities as well as stronger enforcement of the ordinance. It developed smoke-free toolkits, launched carnival activities in the Asian Games Village and other venues, and leveraged existing volunteer networks − such as the citywide V-stations and Smoke-free West Lake volunteer initiative − to further engage and mobilize young people to take part in the campaign for smoke-free environments. The Government strengthened enforcement by engaging with 14 regulatory departments, utilizing digital tools, and training 37 000 Asian Games volunteers. More than 530 000 inspections have been conducted since the amended smoke-free ordinance was introduced, and fines totalling 987 000 yuan have been collected. Hangzhou’s experience provides a compelling example of how leveraging international events and engaging with youth can effectively strengthen the implementation of local smoke-free policies, potentially influencing broader legislative changes.

Governor Jose Enrique S. Garcia of Bataan province in the Philippines has demonstrated his commitment to protect youth from the harms of tobacco. Under his leadership, several measures have been implemented in the province to prevent tobacco industry interference in schools, communities and places frequented by minors. To gain public support for comprehensive tobacco control policies, Governor Garcia implemented intensive campaigns, educational programmes and community outreach initiatives to raise awareness on the health risks associated with tobacco use. The landmark “Tobacco-Free Generation” movement in the Philippines flourished in Balanga City during his term as mayor and has continued under his governorship. His dedication to creating a healthier and safer environment for children through the Tobacco Free-Generation campaign has encouraged other municipalities across the province to also join the movement.

HealthBridge Foundation of Canada, HealthBridge Viet Nam, Viet Nam 

HealthBridge Foundation of Canada, HealthBridge Viet Nam has been at the forefront of tobacco control in Viet Nam for more than 20 years. The organization has helped the country to promote evidence-based tobacco control policies, including those related to smoke-free environments, taxation of conventional tobacco and new nicotine products, prevention of tobacco industry interference and targeted anti-tobacco campaigns. HealthBridge’s participatory approach has provided the opportunity for both governmental and nongovernmental entities, as well as communities − including youth and women’s groups in Viet Nam − to contribute in the development and implementation of strong tobacco control programmes and policies in the country.