As the WHO FCTC Conference of Parties concluded in Panama, the significance of subnational initiatives in tobacco control, especially in policy enforcement, cannot be overemphasized. Our local efforts, from establishing comprehensive smoke-free zones in Mandaluyong to the proactive monitoring and reduction of public exposure to tobacco campaigns in the regions, highlight the critical role of grassroots strategies in the global fight against tobacco. This necessitates further empowerment of local governments and communities that will reinforce FCTC’s call for a more accelerated action toprotect the youth from the dangers of tobacco.

As we move towards greater collaboration in this area, there is a resounding call to prioritize the scaling up of successful models, such as those demonstrated by Balanga and Baguio cities, to ensure a broader implementation of effective tobacco control measures at the local level. There is a need to strengthen legislation to restrict tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorships and further increase sin taxes to deter the youth from using tobacco. Finally, public campaigns targeting the youth and leveraging digital platforms are needed to enhance the effectiveness of our tobacco control policies.