In a strong show of solidarity against the rising use of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) and vaping among the youth, the Commission on Higher Education Regional Office I, led by Director IV Dr. Christine Nabor-Ferrer, joined the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement with the Philippine College of Chest Physicians Northwest Luzon Chapter (PCCP-BWL) for the initiative, “Protecting Young Lungs, Empowering Young Mind,” at Hudor Resort, Bauang, La Union on July 12, 2025.
The ceremonial MOA signing marked a collaborative milestone among local agencies and health professionals to strengthen advocacy, monitoring, and enforcement of anti-vaping measures within educational institutions in Region 1.
Spearheaded by the PCCP-BWL, under the leadership of Dr. Crisanta Gabriela B. Palabay, the event brought together key signatories, including:
• Dr. Jubert P. Benedicto, President of PCCP (National)
• Dr. Christine Nabor-Ferrer, Regional Director of CHED RO1
• Director Paula Paz M. Sydiongco, MD, MPH, CESO III of the Department of Health Region 1
• Dr. Tolentino G. Aquino, Regional Director of the Department of Education Region 1
Also gracing the event as witnesses were prominent figures from various sectors:
• Dr. Jennifer Ann Wi, Past President of the American College of Chest Physicians – Philippine Chapter
• Dr. Michael C. Bangloy, Head of the City Health Office representing City Mayor Hermenegildo Gualberto
• Dr. Allyn Pacio, President of the La Union Medical Society
• Dr. Sheila Marie A. Primicias, Schools Division Superintendent
The MOA aims to bolster advocacy and information dissemination campaigns against vaping in Region 1 schools, establish mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating vaping-related incidents, and support the enforcement of anti-vaping policies across educational institutions.
In her message, Dr. Ferrer affirmed CHED RO1’s commitment to the health and well-being of tertiary-level students. She emphasized that CHED’s participation in the agreement reflects the commission’s dedication to Sustainable Development Goal 3 – Good Health and Well-Being.
Through strong policy advocacy, quality education, and institutional support, CHED continues to promote healthy, smoke-free, and vape-free environments in all higher education institutions.
The event signaled a united front among health and education sectors in creating safer, healthier campuses for the youth—laying the groundwork for a future where informed decisions and empowered minds lead to tobacco- and vape-free lives.
𝘣𝘺 𝘈. 𝘋𝘰𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘴
