BACKGROUND AND IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES: The success story of Baguio City, Philippines in localizing the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) stems from its deep history as the "Health Resort of the Far East' and its deep culture on "Binnadang", a local dialect which means "communal unity, work, and cooperation". This multisectoral collaborative approach including the local government, civil society organizations, health professionals, academe, businesses, youth, and community members that tobacco control strategies has been sustained despite the tobacco industry interference, resource limitations, and competing priorities in local health program implementation.
INTERVENTION OR RESPONSE: Baguio City implemented a comprehensive suite of interventions tailored to its unique urban and cultural context. These included the strict enforcement of smoke-free policies in public spaces, comprehensive ban on TAPS, access restrictions, extensive awareness campaigns on dangers of tobacco and vape use, support programs for cessation, and policy on tobacco industry interference.
A critical component of Baguio’s success was its ability to build strong partnerships across sectors. Collaborative governance anchored on accountability, transparency, and trust enabled the city to integrate tobacco control initiatives beyond health, education, and environmental agendas, ensuring sustainability and widespread impact. Community engagement played a pivotal role, with residents actively participating in monitoring and reporting violations of tobacco regulations, further strengthening compliance.
RESULTS AND IMPACT: The outcomes were significant: reduced prevalence of tobacco use from among adult 31.3% in 2014 to 8.9% in 2023 among adults, and 28% to 5% among youth and decrease exposure to second hand smoke in public places These achievements underscore the effectiveness of localized implementation of FCTC when supported by inclusive, multisectoral collaboration.
CONCLUSIONS: Baguio City’s experience serves as an inspiring model for other cities aiming to combat the tobacco epidemic. By tailoring global health frameworks to local contexts and fostering collective action, cities can achieve meaningful, sustainable health outcomes for their populations.