ASCRA Consulting, Inc., an Asean-based research firm headquartered in Makati City, will hold a media roundtable on November 5, to promote stronger media networks for effective tobacco harm reduction (THR) communication.
The event, which will take place at Mallberry Suites Business Hotel, will focus on improving collaboration between media outlets and organizations to enhance reporting on THR.
Discussions will cover best practices, the media’s role in public health, and the need for accurate, evidence-based information.
Ascra Communications Officer Nina Albie Morallos emphasized fostering cooperation to advance THR efforts.
“This roundtable offers an opportunity to strengthen collaboration among media professionals,” she said.
The Philippines, ranking third in cigarette production in Southeast Asia, faces significant public health challenges related to tobacco use.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco causes over 8 million deaths globally each year, including 1.3 million non-smokers.
WHO data from 2022 estimates 87,600 smoking-related deaths annually in the Philippines, equating to 240 daily.
Provincial Health Consultant and Vice Mayor Maslog, former chair of the Northern Mindanao Tobacco Control Council, underscored the local impact.
“Diri sa Misamis Oriental daghan usab gaka kabsan sa kinabuhi tungod sa smoking,” Maslog told Gold Star Daily.
The roundtable aims to provide media professionals with a platform to discuss the challenges of tobacco use and explore strategies for promoting effective THR communication in the country.
